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Yartar And Beyond.

Posted by DM FletchFor group archive 5
DM Fletch
GM, 1 post
Thu 23 Aug 2007
at 05:46
  • msg #1

Yartar and beyond

After your recent harrowing adventures you finally arrive in the town of Yartar at mid-afternoon.  From what you can see as you approach the town, Yartar is a mid-sized town of about three thousand souls with fairly rudimentary ditch and palisade defences.  The soil hereabouts is suitable for farming but crops are hardly abundant and the land is barely tamed.  Only the position of the town near the ferry crossing where the Evermoor Way crosses the River Dessarin gives the town any real significance.

The path you are on joins up with the road from Mornbryn's Shield before it enters the town from the north through a gate flanked by wooden watchtowers.  A single guard mans the station, a large bell hanging beside him could presumably summon reinforcements, but he gives you little more than a cursory glance and a wave as you enter.

The road passes between closely packed townhouses until it opens into the town square where it forms a large 'T' with the east-west Evermoor Way.  Most of the important civic buildings are here: small temples to Tyr and Waukeen sit side by side to the south; a squat, sprawling two-story building in the north-east proclaims itself The Ferryman's Pull; and a large wooden building to the north-west could easily be the town hall.  Smaller buildings identified by brightly-coloured signs surround the larger structures.

Interestingly, the grass in the south-west corner of the square seems closely packed as though from the passing of many feet.

There are a few people about but they carry on about their business and seem content to let you carry on with yours.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:04, Tue 18 Sept 2007.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 6 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Tue 18 Sep 2007
at 14:24
  • msg #2

Re: Yartar and beyond

Cuaglar walked slightly behind his friends, perfectly willing to let them take the lead.  He had never been in a wholly human city before, and wasn't entirely sure how they would react.  All he could be thankful for, as he looked at the wooden buildings that were as lumps of coal compared to the structures of Silverymoon, was that they hadn't confiscated his sword or his daggers or his bow.
Zyphen
player, 12 posts
Init +4, AC 18/14/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Wed 19 Sep 2007
at 00:50
  • msg #3

Re: Yartar and beyond

Zyphen, after guiding the group to the town, falls back.  He pulls his his black, silver-embroidered hood low over his face and tries to blend with the group as he walks his horse through the gates.  "I care not where we rest, though I am certain our colorful mark will have an opinion."

Zyphen will leave it to Atalakis or someone else to handle the townsfolk of Yartar and find an inn.  Zyphen does not mind towns, but prefers not to be the center of attention, which his genasi heritage sometimes earns him.  He will do his best to blend so that he is not remembered in particular.
Atalakis
player, 5 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 30/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Wed 19 Sep 2007
at 12:29
  • msg #4

Re: Yartar and beyond

Well, certainly there is a fine, upstanding establishment somewhere around here. We have traveled a long and dangerous path and many of us are weary... A warm bath, a soft feather bed, a hearty meal served by comely tavern wenches, ah, and a minstrel by the fireplace waiting to hear of my latest deeds. These are the things that will fuel us on to greater works of good!

Atalakis will guide the group to a high quality inn.
Kanir
player, 16 posts
Init +8, AC 12/10/12
HP 28/28, Saves +3/+3/+6
Wed 19 Sep 2007
at 13:35
  • msg #5

Re: Yartar and beyond

The young man sits at the rear of the cart in quiet nervousness as the group strolls into the street of Yarter.  He's biting his nails, and quietly watching the surrounding.

"People, Shadow.  People.", he speaks to his backpack.
[Private to DM Fletch: So, I was hoping to find a place to pick up some spells'n'supplies.  Is this place big enough to find such things?  Like wizard's book store or library or somethin'?]

-K
DM Fletch
GM, 28 posts
More! You want more?!
Wed 19 Sep 2007
at 14:52
  • msg #6

Re: Yartar and beyond

The Ferryman's Pull is almost certainly an inn.  That would make it the only inn you've seen so far, although a town this size probably has others.  It's prime position on the village square makes it the oldest and biggest, but that doesn't necessarily mean it's the best.

[Private to Kanir: You would expect so, but you'll just have to look won't you?  The buildings with the colourful signs are likely to be shops.]
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 9 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Wed 19 Sep 2007
at 16:18
  • msg #7

Re: Yartar and beyond

Cuaglar looked at the inn with some measure of distaste, recalling his favourite eating house, the Silver Dragon Feast Hall, back in Silverymoon.
"So.  That's an inn, is it?" He asked tentatively.  "Are we likely to encounter a brawl within?"
Zyphen
player, 14 posts
Init +4, AC 18/14/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Wed 19 Sep 2007
at 18:14
  • msg #8

Re: Yartar and beyond

"Inns and brawls go together like wind and rain," Zyphen murmurs from beneath his hood, "but that does not mean we would have to participate in them."
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 11 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Wed 19 Sep 2007
at 22:23
  • msg #9

Re: Yartar and beyond

Cuaglar seemed to brighten at this news.
"Really?  Excellent!  I don't have to have chairs broken over my back?  Or swing off of chandeliers?  Or fight with broken wine bottles?" He asked, now smiling, pretending to be naive.
Kanir
player, 22 posts
Init +8, AC 12/10/12
HP 28/28, Saves +3/+3/+6
Thu 20 Sep 2007
at 00:21
  • msg #10

Re: Yartar and beyond

"Maybe we should find a lit...t...tle bit cozier one.  Less chance of a brawl, I think.", the young man suggests.

-K
Borovik
player, 2 posts
Thu 20 Sep 2007
at 01:14
  • msg #11

Re: Yartar and beyond

Borovik grinned. "I don't look for brawls, but I don't mind 'em either."

"Still, looking for someplace quieter might be good."

He looked for somebody who seemed friendly enough to make eye contact and said, "Well met! What's the best inn in town?"
DM Fletch
GM, 31 posts
More! You want more?!
Thu 20 Sep 2007
at 02:52
  • msg #12

Re: Yartar and beyond

Borovik hails a young man who happens to be walking by.  From the apron rolled over one arm and the flour on his face, he looks to be a baker or miller.

"The Ferryman's Pull is a'right.  And right behind ye.  But person'ly I'd be at the Harvest Sheaf.  It's on the Evermoor Way a ways east nearer the edge of town.  The service is better.  And I'd stay away from the Blue Dessarin.  The rivermen stop there and they're a bunch of rogues if e'er I've seen un."

The man gives crude directions by pointing; first down the road to the east and then off to the west.

"But I don't get much time for inns.  I'm off to home and bed, for it's an early start fer me again tomorrow."
Borovik
player, 3 posts
Thu 20 Sep 2007
at 02:57
  • msg #13

Re: Yartar and beyond

Borovik nodded. "Thanks. And while I'm asking questions, where can I get the best bread in town?"
DM Fletch
GM, 32 posts
More! You want more?!
Thu 20 Sep 2007
at 03:29
  • msg #14

Re: Yartar and beyond

The man smiles, "Tha's easy.  Rurik's bakery.  Take the first right after you leave the square.  It's the third building down on the left.  Tho' you're better off waiting till tomorrow, now.  It'll be fresher and you'll have more to choose than just the townwives' leavings."

He points east once more, back the way he came, gives a quick nod of goodbye and leaves.
Atalakis
player, 6 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 30/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Thu 20 Sep 2007
at 12:33
  • msg #15

Re: Yartar and beyond

Sounds splendid. The recommendations are much appreciated my good man.

To the Harvest Sheaf!

Atalakis will lead the group their, stable his horse if he deems it an acceptable establishment, and will proceed in for a bath and a good meal.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 15 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Thu 20 Sep 2007
at 13:05
  • msg #16

Re: Yartar and beyond

Cuaglar stabled his horse as well, but wasn't so eager to take a bath.  He had trained in steeling himself to cold and heat, as part of his training with his swordsmaster, and had regularly washed his face and hands with snow.  No, now he wanted to put his feet up, and listen to the trivial events humans called 'news'.  Or was it, 'rumors?' Cuaglar just didn't know the right word in Common.
Kanir
player, 26 posts
Init +8, AC 12/10/12
HP 28/28, Saves +3/+3/+6
Thu 20 Sep 2007
at 13:47
  • msg #17

Re: Yartar and beyond

The young man follows the group to Harvest Sheaf.  Along the way, he notes lay of the town, from the center of the town to the east side along the Evermoor way.

He resists the urge to stick his head into every interesting looking storefront, and simply makes a note of them for visiting later.  The supply of the Elven tea he shared with Arn was dwindling and he pays special attention to places who might supply such things.

-K
Corven
player, 2 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Thu 20 Sep 2007
at 14:12
  • msg #18

Re: Yartar and beyond


"So we're going to the Harvest Sheaf then?  If you want a bar fight, the Blue Dessarin sounds like the place to go ..."   Corven sighs and quietly mutters under his breathe, "I've never even been in a bar fight ..."
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 16 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Thu 20 Sep 2007
at 14:55
  • msg #19

Re: Yartar and beyond

"You misunderstand me, farmer." Cuaglar said in an explanatory way.  "I have no wish to 'tussle' with the local roughs.  One, it would cause trouble in a town where we don't want any, and two, they would get soundly trounced, and howl for vengeance, and we would never have peace in Yartar again."
Zyphen
player, 15 posts
Init +4, AC 18/14/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Thu 20 Sep 2007
at 15:05
  • msg #20

Re: Yartar and beyond

Zyphen nods.  "This is wisdom.  A quieter place is better.  Nothing stops us from visiting the common rooms of the other inns, if our colorful mark decides that 'justice' must be pursued by seeking rumors from the river-men."

Zyphen will quietly see to his horse, taking his bags inside to make certain they are not stolen.  Murmuring in Auren to Snow, his owl, he will set her free to hunt; she knows to return in the morning to look for him.  Zyphen will then acquire a room next to Rook's.  After his room is arranged and locked, he will go to the common room, find a shadowy corner where his back is to the wall and he can see the door and the stairs up to the inn rooms, and sit quietly, watching for suspicious people.

However, he certainly does not seek out any rumors of adventure.  If he had his way, it would be straight back to Llork with his do-gooder mark.  If Atalakis insists on trampsing off to one of the rowdier inns or some other such folly, Zyphen will silently follow to ensure that no harm comes to the paladin.
Corven
player, 3 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Thu 20 Sep 2007
at 15:07
  • msg #21

Re: Yartar and beyond


"Oh, I understand Cuaglar, those human roughs look pretty mean.  I'd be frightened of them too, if I was in your shoes.  You know how they feel about elves ...  Don't worry about it, if we go to the Harvest Sheaf they shouldn't bother us there."
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 17 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Thu 20 Sep 2007
at 19:15
  • msg #22

Re: Yartar and beyond

At Corven's mention of the word, 'frightened,' Cuaglar's face remained fixed, but his eyes suddenly blazed with wrath, then died down again, like a suddenly leaping candle in a draft.
"I am not frightened of them, Corven.  I merely have more important things to do than possibly spending the night, or month, in some human prison."
Corven
player, 4 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Thu 20 Sep 2007
at 20:14
  • msg #23

Re: Yartar and beyond


"Oh, I understand, don't worry about it.  We'll be safe at the Harvest Sheaf, they won't be able to find us there."  Corven will follow everyone towards the inn, leading his faithful horse Tacky.  "Don't worry Tacky, those nasty-looking humans won't be able to frighten you once we get to the Harvest Sheaf."
DM Fletch
GM, 33 posts
More! You want more?!
Thu 20 Sep 2007
at 23:30
  • msg #24

Re: Yartar and beyond

The Harvest Sheaf is easy enough to find; it's sign a bound sheaf of wheat in bright yellow paint.  The baker's recommendation seems accurate enough.  The inn is considerably smaller than the Ferryman's Pull and your animals will all but fill it's stables, but the serving-boy on duty is quick and attentive.

Inside, the air is stuffy and warm.  There is clean straw on the floor.  There are relatively few patrons at the moment, it being too early for most.  Those present seem more like travellers and traders than townsfolk.  The room is dominated by a mountain of a woman ensconced behind the bar.  Her blonde hair, fading to grey, is piled high in a severe bun from which strands are constantly escaping.  She's joking with one of the customers and her laugh fills the room.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 18 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Fri 21 Sep 2007
at 00:49
  • msg #25

Re: Yartar and beyond

Cuaglar waited until the laughter died down from the joke, not wanting to interrupt.  When the moment presented itself, he approached the bar and said,
"Excuse me, ma'am.  Could my friends and I have a bottle of one of your finest wines?"
Kanir
player, 34 posts
Init +8, AC 12/10/12
HP 28/28, Saves +3/+3/+6
Fri 21 Sep 2007
at 14:48
  • msg #26

Re: Yartar and beyond

The young man follows the group into the dining area and sit amongst them.  He appears to be a little bit nervous about the new environment, but the nervousness is quickly forgotten as the atmosphare of the inn is pretty cozy, and been a while for him to actually smell the cooking of homemade food.

He gives a curious quick glances here and there to other patrons of the place, measuring them up, as his stomach growls with hunger.

[Private to DM Fletch: So, any chance my character saw any interesting looking stores on the way here?  I'm interested in place to pick up spells, as mentioned, along with a horse.

Also, who are the other patrons?  Is there a Dwarven Cleric amongst them? <laugh>]
-K
DM Fletch
GM, 35 posts
More! You want more?!
Sun 23 Sep 2007
at 06:51
  • msg #27

Re: Yartar and beyond

"A bottle of wine, why, of course, de...  Oh my, an elf!"  The woman seems startled for a moment, but recovers quickly.  "I'm sorry, dear, I didn't mean to be rude.  It's just we don't get many elves in here.  I'm not sure what we'll have that will suit your palate, but curse my hospitality if I can't at least try."

"We have a 1370 High Hill Chardonnay and a 1367 Kepler's Vale Shiraz if my memory serves, which it usually does, dear."  The woman laughs heartily but she looks at you closely as she continues.  "But they're not cheap.  The High Hill is ten gold and the Shiraz twenty, and I won't open them unless you're buying the bottle, mind."

The patrons here are unremarkable (and human).  There are a mix of people in plain but serviceable work clothes and a few in traveller's garb.  There are no dwarven clerics to be seen :P
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 19 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Sun 23 Sep 2007
at 13:11
  • msg #28

Re: Yartar and beyond

Cuaglar blinked with slight incomprehension.  He had never heard of those vintages.  Back in Silverymoon, elven wine needed no fancy names.  Elf wine was good enough as it was.  And twenty gold coins seemed like a rip-off to him.
"Er... Is there some kind of economic trouble your town is going through, to have your goods at such an extravagant cost?" Cuaglar asked, nervously tapping his gloved fingers on the bar.
Atalakis
player, 7 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 30/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Mon 24 Sep 2007
at 15:33
  • msg #29

Re: Yartar and beyond

Atalakis strolls into the common room, his short hair still damp from the bath he had just taken. His clothes were neat and clean and his armor once again polished to a mirror sheen, though it had been well-kept before. He made his way to the table where the others were sitting, smiling a smile that literally sparkled, as he eased himself into his seat.

Ah, the wonders of a bath. It is a joy to be clean once more. I am much more imposing figure of righteousness when not encrusted with dirt and grime.



He says, as he adjusts himself to a comfortable position in the chair, his hands smoothing his pastel blue tabard as he does so.

I do hope you all find time to bathe as well. It is of great import, not only for our noses, but for or reputation! The bards do not sing well of disheveled adventurers.

But, I digress...

I could not help but overhear your conversation about the price of wines in this quaint town. Could it be their economy is in shambles due to the some great terror threatening the populace? Could the town be overrun with crime that urges the local vendors to hike up the prices on wine to pay dues to the criminal network??

Perhaps this is a sign from Sune that her Pastel Champion has some great works to do here...

We must investigate further. Let us eat and then we can proceed to learn what we can from the citizens of Yartar. We might even have to visit one of those seedier establishments for more news... Perhaps we will find grave news, which would be most unfortunate, were I not hear to see that good triumphs.

Atalakis will proceed to eat a meal and will talk with the server and any others whom look knowledgeable. If the others agree, he will lead them in the direction of any other rumors of nefarious deeds, be they to seedy bars, or other locations, and will use his diplomatic skills to gain as much information as possible.

11:33, Today: Atalakis rolled 26 using 1d20+10. Diplomacy.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:15, Mon 24 Sept 2007.
Zyphen
player, 24 posts
Init +4, AC 18/14/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Mon 24 Sep 2007
at 17:24
  • msg #30

Re: Yartar and beyond

Atalakis:
I could not help but overhear your conversation about the price of wines in this quaint town. Could it be their economy is in shambles due to the some great terror threatening the populace? Could the town be overrun with crime that urges the local vendors to hike up the prices on wine to pay dues to the criminal network??


"Or could it be that it is just good wine?" Zyphen interjects sarcastically. "Evil does not lurk under every rock and cloud, paladin.  Conjuring up criminal networks from the price of a wine bottle seems as far-fetched as a hot north wind.  It is more likely that the elf simply underestimated the depth and breadth of this woman's wine cellar.  In the deserts of Calimport, 20 gold for a bottle of fine wine is counted cheap."

Zyphen shakes his head.  "I have no doubt that you will dig up something to smite in this town, paladin," he murmurs, not sounding pleased about it, "but let us at least hope it is something more worth our time than a nefarious wine-cartel."
DM Fletch
GM, 39 posts
More! You want more?!
Tue 25 Sep 2007
at 13:16
  • msg #31

Re: Yartar and beyond

"Extravagant cost?!  How rude!  It's not my problem you've not the coin to back your orders.  Not that I'd be serving it to you now even if you offered twenty-five."  The barkeep is clearly offended, an imposing and impressive sight in a woman of her stature.

"And don't think I didn't hear you, Mister Tin-Pants!  It's as well you've already paid board for the night 'cause you can have your beloved bath under some other roof than mine on the morrow.  Our economy is as good as it's been in years and our sheriff does a fine job keeping the local riff-raff in order."

Her anger subsides somewhat as she regards Zyphen, "Thank you, young man.  Finally someone with an ounce of sense.  Kepler's Vale comes all the way from the Dalelands and from there it's either caravan fees on the Black Road or import duties in Sembia.  I'll be lucky to make any money at all at the price I'm selling it."

"You're welcome to stay as you like, but I imagine you'll be wanting to accompany the Pastel fool."

Thereafter it becomes noticeable that Zyphen gets prompt, friendly service.  Cuaglar and Atalakis find themselves somehow overlooked whenever they try to catch the attention of a serving maid.  Fortunately, Atalakis' diplomatic manner goes some way towards recovering the situation, but nobody stops long enough to gossip.

Those staying the night - and that includes anyone who has stated they're having a bath :) - mark off 5sp if you're staying in the dormitory accommodation or 2gp if you get a private room.

[Private to Kanir: I forgot: You didn't see any horse yards, but the most likely place for those is a little further along the road towards the east gate.  There was one shop that looked like it might have magical supplies: Harkgupple's Alchemical Supplies and Aerated Drinks.]
Corven
player, 5 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Tue 25 Sep 2007
at 14:31
  • msg #32

Re: Yartar and beyond


Corven shakes his head at the barkeep's outburst.  Whispering towards Atalakis, he says, "It might be that you are correct, oh Multicolored Magister of Might.  Her reaction was quite strong for such an innocuous question - could she be hiding something perhaps?  As my grandfather would always say, 'Those who are quick to anger have something to hide'."
Atalakis
player, 8 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 30/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Tue 25 Sep 2007
at 15:25
  • msg #33

Re: Yartar and beyond

Corven:
Corven shakes his head at the barkeep's outburst.  Whispering towards Atalakis, he says, "It might be that you are correct, oh Multicolored Magister of Might.  Her reaction was quite strong for such an innocuous question - could she be hiding something perhaps?  As my grandfather would always say, 'Those who are quick to anger have something to hide'."


Yes, her response was most abrasive and unwarranted. Something dreadful must certainly be going on.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 22 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Tue 25 Sep 2007
at 15:28
  • msg #34

Re: Yartar and beyond

Cuaglar shrugged, and accepted the innkeeper's wrath placidly.  To him, it didn't matter.  It was like a child's temper tantrum.  He didn't really even need the wine; he was just getting a bottle to share, and be sociable.  Nevertheless, as Cuaglar left the bar he left his fee for his room, two gold coins (minted in Silverymoon) on the bar, right where anyone could see them. The innkeeper would have to be pretty quick to claim them.
Kanir
player, 38 posts
Init +8, AC 12/10/12
HP 28/28, Saves +3/+3/+6
Tue 25 Sep 2007
at 15:53
  • msg #35

Re: Yartar and beyond

The young man chuckles at "Mr. Tin-Pants" comment, but when he feels the heat of the angry glare, he quickly drops his smile and makes a stern face, as if not to condone such comment.

He himself is completely content with no-frill local stuff.  Perhaps some warm stew with cured meat and winter root vegetables, and local winter ale to take the chill out of the body as they've been travelling in the snow for past few days.  He does however go for a private room, and then announces to the group that he'll go around the town a little after a quick hot bath.

[Private to DM Fletch: So, want to go for shopping and then see if I can pick up a horse, pick up some spells, and maybe run into a dwarven cleric :D]

-K
Zyphen
player, 25 posts
Init +4, AC 18/14/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Tue 25 Sep 2007
at 17:06
  • msg #36

Re: Yartar and beyond

Zyphen is indifferent to the improved treatment.  He will sit in a shadowy corner where he can see the doors, as earlier discussed, and pay for his private room.
DM Fletch
GM, 42 posts
More! You want more?!
Wed 26 Sep 2007
at 10:29
  • msg #37

Re: Yartar and beyond

After taking his bath, Kanir briefly returns to the common room.  He is intent on a shopping expedition.  Any takers?
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 26 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Sat 29 Sep 2007
at 15:28
  • msg #38

Re: Yartar and beyond

Cuaglar looked over his equipment, pausing at his quiver.  He looked in surprise at all the arrows he had in there, including the enchanted arrows Zyphen had lent him.
"Well!  I thought I had used up a good many arrows.  I thought I was running short, but as it stands I'm probably good for now.  However, I think I'll go with you, Kweek, to stretch my legs.  I've travelled far, but not far enough to warrant lounging around all day in sloth in an inn." Cuaglar said, slinging his quiver over his shoulder again.
Zyphen
player, 31 posts
Init +4, AC 18/14/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Mon 1 Oct 2007
at 14:19
  • msg #39

Re: Yartar and beyond

Zyphen will go shopping, to help move things along.  He is fairly certain that the Paladin could not get in life-threatening danger that quickly.

I think Atalakis then mentioned something about going to the other inns to "look for evil to smite" or some such.
DM Fletch
GM, 44 posts
More! You want more?!
Wed 3 Oct 2007
at 03:49
  • msg #40

Re: Yartar and beyond

----------------------------------
Cuaglar, Zyphen and Kanir

The first item on Kanir's shopping list is a horse.  So, being a sensible (?) sort he heads further east along the Evermoor Way until he finds the horseyards close to the east gate of the town.  There's a few different horse traders to choose from: Honest Handry' Horseyard; Jenovik's Horses and Tack; and Mennath's Stables.

OOC: Can I have a Handle Animal or Knowledge (nature) check and a Sense Motive check from each of you, please.
------------------------------------------------------
Borovik (exit stage left) and Atalakis

Back at the inn, Borovik complains of feeling unwell and heads upstairs to his room.  Atalakis is about to put into practice his plan of scouring the other inns for rumours of evil deeds and the like when he is approached by the portly innkeeper.

"I'm sorry I yelled at you, love.  I'm a mite bit townproud, see, but the girls say you speak well and I'm sure you didn't mean to cause offence."

"If you are looking for good deeds to be doing or such like, I might have something for you and your friends.  I'd like the Sheriff to explain it since it's his idea, but I can send Nobby for him now and he'll be here soon enough."  She looks questioningly at Atalakis to see if the paladin likes the idea.
Corven
player, 9 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Wed 3 Oct 2007
at 14:13
  • msg #41

Re: Yartar and beyond

"I think you were right, Atalakis - this village is under the shadows of evil!"
Kanir
player, 44 posts
Init +8, AC 12/10/12
HP 28/28, Saves +3/+3/+6
Wed 3 Oct 2007
at 14:41
  • msg #42

Re: Yartar and beyond

"Z...Z...Z...Zyphen, you look like you know horses better than I do.  I'm looking for a fast, well-trained and easy to ride hors...se.  C...Can you choose them for me?"

OOC: I'm going to follow Zyphen's lead on this and let him talk to the horse (car) salesman.  If possible, I prefer my roll be Aiding Zyphen's roll for the Knowlege or Handle Animal (I have no ranks in either Knowledge: Nature or Handle Animal.  I'll roll D20, and list the bonuses).  I will use Sense Motive straight.

10:37, Today: Kanir rolled 8 using 1d20. Aiding Zyphen.  +3 for Knowledge skill, +0 for Handle Animal
10:39, Today: Kanir rolled 14 using 1d20+6. Sense Motive.

-K
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 28 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Wed 3 Oct 2007
at 15:32
  • msg #43

Re: Yartar and beyond

OOC: You're right, Corven!  She stole Nobby from the Ankh-Morpork City Watch!  Or else Nob from the Prancing Pony in Bree...
And is it all right if I don't give Handle Animal and Sense Motive and such?  My modifiers are so low (especially in Sense Motive; I took the Honest trait for Roleplaying reasons) I might as well not bother.
Zyphen
player, 33 posts
Init +4, AC 18/14/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Wed 3 Oct 2007
at 15:44
  • msg #44

Re: Yartar and beyond

Zyphen would prefer not to talk to the horse salesman, but after examining the horses, he will indicate to Kanir which horse he believes is the best.

11:42, Today: Zyphen rolled 10 using 1d20+4. Sense Motive vs. Human.
11:41, Today: Zyphen rolled 17 using 1d20+5. Handle Animal.
Atalakis
player, 12 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 30/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Wed 3 Oct 2007
at 17:57
  • msg #45

Re: Yartar and beyond

Certainly. I would like to speak with this Nobby and see what the good sheriff has to say.
DM Fletch
GM, 45 posts
More! You want more?!
Thu 4 Oct 2007
at 04:14
  • msg #46

Re: Yartar and beyond

Zyphen, Cuaglir and Kanir

Zyphen can tell that Jenovik should stick to selling tack.  One of the horses has a split hoof, clumsily camouflaged with boot black.  You would be lucky to get more than a mile before it went lame.

It's a close-call between Honest Handry and Mennith.  But there's at least the possibility that Handry earned the nickname.  Unfortunately, neither have any warhorses.  Handry tells you that it will be ten days before he gets new stock in.  Mennith believes he can get one in four days.
---------------------------------------
Atalakis and Corven
The innkeeper flushes slightly at Corven's insensitive remark but does not comment.

To Atalakis, she says "Oh no, ther's no need to speak to Nobby.  He's just one of my kitchenhands.  But I'll send him for the sheriff right away."  She walks off (given her bulk it's almost a waddle) in the direction of the kitchen.
Zyphen
player, 34 posts
Init +4, AC 18/14/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Fri 5 Oct 2007
at 17:07
  • msg #47

Re: Yartar and beyond

Zyphen is not overly interested in what horse Kanir chooses, so he will keep as inconspicuous as possible, and watch passer-by for anything suspicious, such as thieves.  Since he was a pickpocket when he was a child, he knows what to look for.

Once Kanir is done with his horse shopping, can we buy/sell what we like?  Zyphen will probably sell off some magic arrows he does not want to keep.

Then Zyphen and Co. could perhaps return in time for Atalakis' meeting with the Sheriff?
Kanir
player, 45 posts
Init +8, AC 12/10/12
HP 28/28, Saves +3/+3/+6
Fri 5 Oct 2007
at 18:17
  • msg #48

Re: Yartar and beyond

The young man repeats the same thing to both horse dealers, "We don't know how long we are staying in Yarter.  I'll be b...back later after we know.", and walks away a bit disappointedly.

OOC: Kanir wants to go scribe some spells into his spellbook.  That'll take a while so we should deal with your stuff now, and Kanir will go with you and look around to see if there's any place he can buy spells.

-K
Zyphen
player, 35 posts
Init +4, AC 18/14/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Fri 5 Oct 2007
at 18:56
  • msg #49

Re: Yartar and beyond

I don't feel the need to RP out selling my arrows and buying misc. gear unless Fletch feels we should.  If so, I will dig up my shopping list sooner rather than later.
DM Fletch
GM, 49 posts
More! You want more?!
Tue 9 Oct 2007
at 02:01
  • msg #50

Re: Yartar and beyond

From the horsemarket Kanir and Zyphen lead Cuaglir in search of any and every shop in town that deals in magical supplies and items.  Zyphen sells off some magical arrows and Kanir is delighted to pick up three scrolls he has been searching for.  With the shopping finished you all return to the the Harvest Sheaf where you find Atalakis and Corven, who are apparently waiting for the sheriff to arrive.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 31 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Tue 9 Oct 2007
at 12:30
  • msg #51

Re: Yartar and beyond

((Cuaglar.  COO-ag-lar.))
The elf swordsman took a seat next to Corven, and said quietly,
"Any news on the wicked innkeeper plot?" with a smile growing on his face.
Zyphen
player, 37 posts
Init +4, AC 18/14/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Tue 9 Oct 2007
at 13:39
  • msg #52

Re: Yartar and beyond

Zyphen will take a seat quietly in a corner, where he can watch everyone enter and leave, and keep his cowl up to hide his genasi features lest he attract unwanted attention.
Kanir
player, 49 posts
Init +8, AC 12/10/12
HP 28/28, Saves +3/+3/+6
Tue 9 Oct 2007
at 14:02
  • msg #53

Re: Yartar and beyond

"D...does anyone know how long we will be staying here in Yartar?  None of them had any trained horse, but one said he can bring one in 4 days.  I said I'll g...g...get back to him., the young man asks around to see if the group is taking leisurely stay around the town.

OOC: So, if no one objects to waiting for 4 days for the horse, I'll go to the horse dealer and tell him to order one for me.

-K
DM Fletch
GM, 50 posts
More! You want more?!
Sat 13 Oct 2007
at 10:14
  • msg #54

Re: Yartar and beyond

OOC: Sorry for the hold-up, I expected Corven and/or Atalakis to respond to your arrival at the inn.  Since they've both been on-line since Tuesday...

Atalakis and Corven tell the others of the innkeepers message.  Apparently there is work to be done, maybe even heroic work, if only the sheriff will hurry up and arrive.

As if on cue, the door to the inn swings open and a tall half-elf enters followed by two dwarves.  The half-elf wears a tabard with the town insignia over a studded leather jerkin.  One dwarf is dressed in civilian clothes, the other is armed and armoured.

The inn-keeper greets the new arrivals, "Hi Sheriff, Hubrid, I see Nobby found you," and nods in your direction.

The half-elf replies "Yes, hello Mistress Katrina.  I take it these are the adventurers." he turns in your direction, the civilian dwarf eyes you with curiosity as well.

"Hi.  I'm Sheriff Fergrin Ty-Djarling.  I'm responsible for keeping order around these parts.  I've a job that I could use some help with if you're interested.  Do you mind if we join you?  This is Hubrid Darkfather the town smith and a member of the town council and Morad Forgehammer a cleric of Moradin, as I understand it, who's already agreed to help."  Sheriff Fergrin introduces the two dwarves with him as he approaches your table.
Atalakis
player, 13 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 30/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Sat 13 Oct 2007
at 15:56
  • msg #55

Re: Yartar and beyond

Atalakis will stand in order to introduce himself. It is a pleasure to meet you, Sheriff Fergrin Ty-Djarling, as well as you Hubrid Darkfather, Morad Forgehammer. Atalakis will nod to each in turn. I am Atalakis, the Pastel Paladin of Sune and defender of all that is good and true in this world. Please, do join us and let us know how we might be of assistance.

Atalakis, will gesture for them to join and will sit once they have, ready to hear what they have to say.


11:56, Today: Atalakis rolled 16 using 1d20+10. Diplomacy.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 33 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Sat 13 Oct 2007
at 16:43
  • msg #56

Re: Yartar and beyond

"And I am Cuaglar Annondur, late of Silverymoon, swordsman." Cualar said, eager to spread his name around.
Kanir
player, 51 posts
Init +8, AC 12/10/12
HP 28/28, Saves +3/+3/+6
Sun 14 Oct 2007
at 00:17
  • msg #57

Re: Yartar and beyond

The young man does not seem comfortable with the relative strangers.  "This is Kweek.  They call me Kweek.  D...Don't they, shadow, don't they?", he slumps into the chair he is sitting in, and starts speaking to his backpack.

-K
DM Fletch
GM, 52 posts
More! You want more?!
Mon 15 Oct 2007
at 13:19
  • msg #58

Re: Yartar and beyond

"Hello Atalakis, Cuaglar, Kweek?" the sheriff's voice makes the last name a question, as if to confirm that he has heard correctly.

"Strange as it may sound, the job I have can be traced back to Waterdeep.  See most of the trade passing through here is either coming from or bound for the city.  A lot goes by the trade roads but a bunch also goes by river barge on the Dessarin down from Silverymoon and Mithril Hall.  We're close enough that we get visited by recruiting parties each spring but too far away for them to care much for our protection."

"And that might be a problem.  Just south of here along the river you enter the Dessarin Hills.  Partway up Stonebrow Hill overlooking the river is Brightstone Keep.  It hasn't been garrisoned for a while now.  Every year I have to try and find men to go up there and check it out, because, while the defences have seen better days, it's a perfect base for anyone wanting to raid the river traffic."

"I can offer one hundred gold each if you'd be prepared to go to the Keep, scout it out and return with a report.  If you find you need to evict undesirables, well we can probably work out a bounty.  What do you say?"
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 34 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Mon 15 Oct 2007
at 13:39
  • msg #59

Re: Yartar and beyond

"Undesirables?  Do you think bandits use that keep, then?" Cuaglar asked,tapping his fingers on the table.
Zyphen
player, 38 posts
Init +4, AC 18/14/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Mon 15 Oct 2007
at 14:01
  • msg #60

Re: Yartar and beyond

Zyphen listens, but remains silent and shadowed in his corner.
DM Fletch
GM, 53 posts
More! You want more?!
Mon 15 Oct 2007
at 14:21
  • msg #61

Re: Yartar and beyond

"Bandits.  Goblins.  Orcs.  They've all been there before at one time or another and will likely return, if not this year then next.  They'll keep doing it too, until Waterdeep or one of the other cities decides it's worth their while to garrison the Keep."
Corven
player, 10 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Tue 16 Oct 2007
at 13:41
  • msg #62

Re: Yartar and beyond


"Perhaps you could seal it up or destroy the keep?  If it's that much of a cause for concern, it might be worth it."

Corven will sit back in his chair, listening to the conversation and taking a look around the inn.
Kanir
player, 52 posts
Init +8, AC 12/10/12
HP 28/28, Saves +3/+3/+6
Wed 17 Oct 2007
at 18:02
  • msg #63

Re: Yartar and beyond

"Oh...I don't know.  I d...don't know.  Converting a keep into a ruin of a keep won't deter ruffians to habitate it, I guess.  Sealing it up sounds better though.  I suppose we have to c...clear it before we can seal it.", he mumbles a bit while biting his fingernails.

-K
Atalakis
player, 14 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 30/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Thu 18 Oct 2007
at 15:16
  • msg #64

Re: Yartar and beyond

Good sir, we will be glad to investigate this keep and oust any ne'er do-wells that may inhabit it. I give you my word, as Sune's colorful champion that we will accomplish this task. All we need is to know the location and we can set off promptly.
Zyphen
player, 39 posts
Init +4, AC 18/14/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Thu 18 Oct 2007
at 15:29
  • msg #65

Re: Yartar and beyond

While his face remains cold and expressionless, Zyphen sighs--considering that he does not breath, you take this as a sign that Zyphen is exasperated with the paladin.  "I suppose this was inevitable.  How soon can we be ready to leave?  The sooner we go, the sooner we can move on to Llork."  Zyphen looks particularly to Kanir, who Zyphen understands needs to scribe spells.

"And while we wait," he murmurs, "perhaps one of you can teach our enthusiastic paladin something of the fine art of haggling...."
This message was last edited by the player at 12:21, Fri 19 Oct 2007.
Kanir
player, 53 posts
Init +8, AC 12/10/12
HP 28/28, Saves +3/+3/+6
Fri 19 Oct 2007
at 13:15
  • msg #66

Re: Yartar and beyond

"I...I tried to get a horse for the road.  The earliest it'll be here is in four days, the dealer said, if you remember.", the young man reminds Zyphen of the earlier shopping ordeal.

-K
Zyphen
player, 41 posts
Init +4, AC 18/14/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Fri 19 Oct 2007
at 13:45
  • msg #67

Re: Yartar and beyond

"Do you need longer to scribe your spells?"

OOC:  Would it be workable to simply pass the number of days Kanir determines he needs to scribe his spells and buy his horse, then set out?  Zyphen might care precisely how many days it is, but I personally don't, and I don't think there is any time-sensativeness to the mission.
Kanir
player, 55 posts
Init +8, AC 12/10/12
HP 28/28, Saves +3/+3/+6
Fri 19 Oct 2007
at 14:33
  • msg #68

Re: Yartar and beyond

"Well, if I could, I would s...spend weeks and weeks just scribbling.  4 days is as good as any.", the young man replies

-K
DM Fletch
GM, 55 posts
More! You want more?!
Sat 20 Oct 2007
at 00:09
  • msg #69

Re: Yartar and beyond

"The keep's a sizeable place.  It would be long, hard work to seal it up and harder to destroy it.  You'll see what I mean when you get there."

"I'd rather you left immediately of course, but four days is still the best offer I've had.  Will you be staying here in the meantime?  I'll get a map copied for you and drop it off to you here if that's the case."

The Sheriff seems pleased that the job's been accepted (barring any late objections) and looks about ready to leave.
Atalakis
player, 15 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 30/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Sun 21 Oct 2007
at 02:52
  • msg #70

Re: Yartar and beyond

Yes, we will be staying here.

Atalakis says as he bids the sheriff farewell.

Atalakis will use the time to explore the town, speak with others, solve minor disputes with his diplomatic skills, etc., as they wait to depart.
DM Fletch
GM, 56 posts
More! You want more?!
Tue 23 Oct 2007
at 12:47
  • msg #71

Re: Yartar and beyond

Four days pass.  Kanir keeps busy writing in his spellbook readying new spells for use.  He also pays another visit to the horseyards on the fourth day.  Atalakis soon makes himself invaluable to the Sheriff playing peacemaker, but for all his enquiries it doesn't seem that there's much work for adventurers - other than the Keep.  Some of the others take the time to rest.  Four days leave passes all too quickly after running helter skelter across half the North.

During the four days a map arrives, delivered by the Sheriff in person.  It shows a trail running south along the banks of the Dessarin until it enters the hills.  There the change in terrain is fairly crudely marked and the map shows the trail cutting back and forth as it moves away from the river.  A junction is marked with a short side trail shown as leading up towards the top of one of the hills.  The Sheriff has added a note close by saying that the Keep sits on a plateau or shelf a bit over halfway up the hillside, the trail following a natural spur that has been modified to resemble an approach ramp.  A sweeping half-circle below the position of the Keep show cliffs that would make any other approach difficult.

[Private to Kanir: Mennith has your horse available in four days but he's asking 200gp (typically 150gp) and your best efforts can't get him to drop the price below 180gp.  ]
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:51, Tue 23 Oct 2007.
Zyphen
player, 43 posts
Init +4, AC 18/14/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Tue 23 Oct 2007
at 13:15
  • msg #72

Re: Yartar and beyond

Zyphen will fall into his normal scouting routine as he moves ahead of the group.

Standard scouting routine for Zyphen:
He will move ahead of the group, keeping silent and staying to the shadows where he can.  He will listen, keep his eyes open, and also watch for any tracks.  He will range ahead and to the sides of the group as necessary to watch our flanks.

I would like to stay at least a minute ahead of them, preferably several minutes ahead.  The goal is to be far enough ahead that anything I encountered would not hear the party blundering along before I saw said beastie and had time to warn the group; but yet still close enough to the group that if I got into real trouble and need them, I could get to them before being squished.  The goal, of course, is to get to our destination by the most efficient route possible, with efficient defined as some mix of "least dangerous" and "fastest".

Relevant stats:

Zyphen's movement rate:  40'
Skills:  Listen +7, Spot +7 (-1 in bright light), Track +9, Move Silent +10, Hide +10
Darkvision 70'
Levitate 1/day
Doesn't breath (would still try to smell things if that seemed relevant)

Zyphen takes 10 on these whenever possible.

Zyphen's favored enemy is "human".  +2 Bluff/Listen/Sense Motive/Spot/Survival.

Zyphen is willing to spend extra time to listen/spot etc. if he thinks something is suspicious.  He will take penalties to move silent/hide to go at full movement rate when necessary.

Signals to the group (Zyphen has taught the others):  If Zyphen sees trouble, he usually sends Snow (his owl) back to Corven (the druid).  If Snow comes back to Corven, then Corven/the group knows to stop and wait for Zyphen to rejoin the group.  Owls actually have move silent (better than Zyphen's!) so if she stays low out of sight Zyphen would believe she would normally not attract much attention.  (If this isn't true for some reason he might not send her.)  If Zyphen sees trouble but wants the rest of the group to advance, he sends Snow to "fly by" Corven and then fly back to Zyphen.  The group takes this to mean "follow the owl cautiously".  If Zyphen wants the group to follow a particular trail as he scouts, he places markers--marks on the trees, marks on the stone in chalk, small arrows made from pebbles, Corven knows what to look for.

This message was last edited by the player at 13:18, Tue 23 Oct 2007.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 35 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Tue 23 Oct 2007
at 13:43
  • msg #73

Re: Yartar and beyond

Cuaglar had spent the last couple days largely out of the inn, wandering about the town.  He often stayed away for long hours, well into nightfall, and could often be seen in the company of a group of people of various races in dark blue cloaks.  On the third day, he came back to the inn with a dark blue cloak with a black hem, pinned with a brooch that looked like a writhing serpent, decorated with blue enamel.  He refused to explain this, falling obstinately silent whenever he was asked about it, or his nightly visits.
When they finally left, Cuaglar led his pack-horse out of the gates, his steed burdened with parcels of food.
Atalakis
player, 16 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 30/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Wed 24 Oct 2007
at 17:45
  • msg #74

Re: Yartar and beyond

Atalakis will ride out with the group, leading on his warhorse, but remaining far enough behind Zyphen so that he might effectively scout their terrain.

Ah, tis a good day to be out combating. Of course, all days are good for such work.
Kanir
player, 56 posts
Init +8, AC 12/10/12
HP 28/28, Saves +3/+3/+6
Thu 25 Oct 2007
at 17:49
  • msg #75

Re: Yartar and beyond

The young wizard rides with the group with his new horse he purchased earlier.  He tried to drag Zyphen to the horse dealer again attempting to bring someone who is knowledgable about horses.  But Zyphen was busy getting ready for this little expedition, and Kweek ended up purchasing the horse anyways.

"Th...this is a bit better than a cart, Shadow.", he speaks to the bag again.  It appears the frequency he does so is increasing, and careful observer will definitely hear more skweeks out of the bag.  He might not be as crazy as it appears.

He remains in the middle of the pack most of the way, still quite jumpy and paranoid...

-K
DM Fletch
GM, 59 posts
More! You want more?!
Sat 27 Oct 2007
at 03:23
  • msg #76

Re: Yartar and beyond

If your map is accurate then the lowlands should extend for about five mile south of the confluence of the Surbrin and Dessarin rivers.  As the crow flies the Keep is only five miles further into the hills, but you guess the distance by trail to be roughly double that.

It takes you some time to cross the Upper Dessarin by ferry.  It would seem that your passage has been anticipated, and paid for, by the Sheriff and you are not asked for any fee much to the irritation of the other travellers on board.

Once you are all on the correct side of the river Zyphen moves off ahead to scout.  Through the lowlands it seems completely unnecessary.  Farmsteads and small settlements dot the river's edge close by the trail you are following.  Now that the winter's mud is hardening, the trail has already seen cart traffic.

As the land rises into the Dessarin Hills the signs of settlement cease and the trail becomes narrower, passing into scrubby woodland.  For long periods Zyphen is completely unseen screened by the vegetation and the twists in the trail.

[Private to Zyphen: You become aware that you are being shadowed by a dire wolf.  It is making an effort to conceal itself but it is too large too hide easily.  Isolated from the others (a minute or so behind) you may be vulnerable.  Please put your actions in a private line or PM.]
Zyphen
player, 45 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Sat 27 Oct 2007
at 04:47
  • msg #77

Re: Yartar and beyond

Zyphen scouts even the settled areas, though his pattern on the road concentrates on possible ambush locations for bandits.  He resumes scouting farther ahead when the trail becomes narrower.

[Private to DM Fletch: DM Fletch,

Some contigent actions to keep things moving.  I don't want to be a show-stopper!

1.  Wild Empathy - I am guessing this is a bad option.  My guess is that Zyphen would have a hard time using Wild Empathy on a Dire Wolf that appears to be at least Unfriendly, if not Hostile--would that jive with Zyphen's knowledge?  My check would be 1d20+1, and it appears that if he was Unfriendly, I would need a roll of 14 to make him Indifferent; if he was Hostile, I would need a roll of 19 to make him Unfriendly.  I am not trying to fixate on the numbers, I am just trying to gage my chance, since I don't really have Zyphen's knowledge of the wild!

Assuming Wild Empathy would be an unlikely proposition at best, next...

2.  One Dire Wolf, Or Many?  Am I relatively certain there is only one dire wolf?  I don't want anyone to be flanked, if I can help it.  If I think there might be more than one, I will send Snow, my owl, to fly back to the party and stay with Corven--this is the standard signal for "danger, stop!"

If I think there is only one dire wolf, I will release Snow, my owl, to fly back to the group then return to me, the signal for "danger, advance cautiously".

3.  Lose it with stealth and water!  After I send the owl, I will try to lose the dire wolf with stealth.  I will look for water, especially running water, that I could swim or wade through to throw it off my scent.  If possible, I will circle down-wind of it.

I will attempt to stay out of its sight (hide) and move quietly (and can use "Walk in Silence", swift action, +5 MS (Shadow Sword sub level) if necessary).

If I can manage to lose it, I will circle back on my trail and meet the party, warning them of the danger.

4.  Fall Back Plan - Levitate!  If all else fails, I will use my Levitate ability for the day to get above the creature, in a place where there is nothing it could jump off of to get at me, and wait for the group.  If there was a convenient ledge or tree that looked un-climbable by a dire wolf I could use that, getting there with Levitate.

Here are some rolls you might need:

00:41, Today: Zyphen rolled 26 using 1d20+9. Survival/Tracking.
00:41, Today: Zyphen rolled 26 using 1d20+7. Spot (subtract 1 if "bright" light).
00:40, Today: Zyphen rolled 12 using 1d20+7. Listen.
00:40, Today: Zyphen rolled 18 using 1d20+10. Move Silently.
00:40, Today: Zyphen rolled 30 using 1d20+10. Hide.

On a completely separate and unrelated note, Zyphen would be keeping his eye out for herbs that he could use with his Craft: Poison-making skill as he scouted.  Not when fleeing from dire wolves, of course.... :) ]
This message was last edited by the player at 04:47, Sat 27 Oct 2007.
DM Fletch
GM, 60 posts
More! You want more?!
Mon 29 Oct 2007
at 12:14
  • msg #78

Re: Yartar and beyond

Nothing to see here folks.  I mean, surely Zyphen can't have got himself in that much trouble already.

[Private to Zyphen: In short: 1. Wild Empathy has bugger all chance of working.  This thing is likely to still be hungry from its winter fast.

2. You're pretty sure there's only one.  From what you know dire wolves are  either solitary or hunt in a pack.  No sign of any pack.  Yet.

3. Feel free, but bear in mind that it will be difficult to lose it given that it's already seen you.  Give me Hide and Move Silently rolls.  No taking 10 anymore.

4. Might wind up being a good idea, but we'll see.]
Zyphen
player, 46 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Mon 29 Oct 2007
at 13:12
  • msg #79

Re: Yartar and beyond

Certainly not....

[Private to DM Fletch: Thanks.  Here are the rolls from before:

00:40, Today: Zyphen rolled 18 using 1d20+10. Move Silently.
00:40, Today: Zyphen rolled 30 using 1d20+10. Hide.

I would like to use my Walk in Silence ability to add +5 to the MS, so it would be a 23.  If that's ok:

Hide:  30.
MS:  23.

I will try to disappear into some trees or rocks, then make for some water to lose the scent; or vice versa if I find the water first.  Goal is for him not to know where I came out of the river and not be able to see me.  If it delays him 10 minutes or even less picking up the scent, then I can get enough of a lead to make a run for it without alerting him.  Then I will run back to the group.  Base move 40'.

Also, just to confirm, because it is probably only one dire wolf I am sending Snow to do a fly-by and then head back in the direction she last saw me.  She returns to me if she can find me.]
This message was last edited by the player at 17:58, Mon 29 Oct 2007.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 38 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Mon 29 Oct 2007
at 17:38
  • msg #80

Re: Yartar and beyond

OOC:
Eh?  Wossat mean?
DM Fletch
GM, 61 posts
More! You want more?!
Wed 31 Oct 2007
at 11:33
  • msg #81

The boy who cried "Wolf!"

[Private to Zyphen: You send Snow flying back to the others, giving her the instruction for a fly past and return.  After that you wait, holding your nerve and walking forwards with every outward appearance of calm.  As the wolf passes behind a boulder uphill from you, you seize your moment and dart off the path on the downhill slope.  Your ruse works and you are away.  Unfortunately, the wolf soon realises it has lost you and there is a crashing noise behind you as it barrels through the undergrowth to the path to start sniffing for your scent.  There are bare rock surfaces around, but that would risk the wolf spotting you in open ground, so you decide to stick close to a stream that parallels the track.  It offers some respite but it would seem that the wolf is intent on the chase.]

Zyphen's owl flies back into view, circles once around Corven then starts flying back up the path.  You keep moving in that direction, cautiously following the agreed signal.  You are momentarily startled by a burst of movement, but it is only Zyphen running from the undergrowth onto the path.  Any relief is shortlived.  A huge wolf standing some five feet tall at the shoulder bounds onto the path just behind Zyphen.  It hesitates for a moment at the sight of you then bares its teeth and leaps to attack.

OOC: Initiatives and first round actions please!
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:47, Wed 31 Oct 2007.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 40 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Wed 31 Oct 2007
at 12:21
  • msg #82

Re: The boy who cried "Wolf!"

Cuaglar started at the arrival of the animal, and hurriedly went to a nearby shrub and began tying his horse's reins to it, so that he wouldn't bolt or get in the way of any fight.

OOC:  08:19, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 12 using 1d20+4. Initiative.
Spending a move action to move to... A SHRUBBERY!  And then a standard action to tie him there.
This reminds me of what occured to me just yesterday in Oblivion.  My horse and I were attacked by a wolf, and eventually the latter spooked off the former to who knows where, leaving me to complete my journey on foot.
Zyphen
player, 47 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Wed 31 Oct 2007
at 12:47
  • msg #83

Re: The boy who cried "Wolf!"

"Wolf," Zyphen hisses, as he leaps from the underbrush to land on the path, long hair and cloak billowing behind him like a cloud.  A heartbeat later the wolf follows.

Zyphen falls back to some underbrush [perhaps near Cuaglar s horse?  I would like concealment if possible], drawing his iridescent bone bow as he moves.  Notching a purple-fletched arrow, he pulls it back to his ear and fires at the dire wolf.

Round 1
Move:  Move 30' or so from direwolf to concealment
Standard:  Fire arrow

Attack: 15 (+1 added already for Haste)
Damage:  12

OOC:

Hasted starting at Kanir's initiative.  At that point, add +1 hit/AC/Reflex, etc.

08:49, Today: Zyphen rolled 12 using 1d8+5. damage.
08:48, Today: Zyphen rolled 14 using 1d20+10. PB single bow shot.
08:42, Today: Zyphen rolled 5 using 1d20+4. Init.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:31, Thu 01 Nov 2007.
Corven
player, 11 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Wed 31 Oct 2007
at 14:03
  • msg #84

Re: The boy who cried "Wolf!"

Momentarily stunned by the appearance of the rather large wolf, Corven will back up a little and attempt to delve the depths of his mind to uncover any knowledge that he can recall about such creatures.



06:58, Today: Corven rolled 19 using 1d20+6. Corven K(Nature) check.

06:57, Today: Corven rolled -4 using 1d20-5. Corven Init.


Kanir
player, 62 posts
Init +8, AC 12/10/12
HP 28/28, Saves +3/+3/+6
Wed 31 Oct 2007
at 14:19
  • msg #85

Re: The boy who cried "Wolf!"

As the wolf leaps ahead, the young man pulls out a piece of root out of his pouch.  He bites into it, and you notice a faint smell of licorice.

He spits the root out and smear it in his hand, and starts chanting,

"Nielánial thraerleniel thialalas rinaeniel tenánindiel tirinleniad sinorbrnar aelowélril."

He clap his hand as he finishes the incantation, with the chewed up licorice root in his hand.  Suddenly, Zyphen, Atalakis and his mount, Cuaglar, and Corven appears to blur slightly.

Your perception of the world changes slightly.  It looks like the world around you is in slow motion, except some of your friends who are blurred with you.

OOC: 09:17, Today: Kanir rolled 16 using 1d20+8. Initiative.

Zyphen, Atalakis and his mount, Cuaglar, and Corven are under the effect of Haste.  Check the link below for exactly what it does...

http://www.d20srd.org/srd/spells/haste.htm

This post assumes Zyphen is within 35' of me (The range of Haste spell).  If he's not within range, haste my horse, please...

-K
Zyphen
player, 48 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Wed 31 Oct 2007
at 15:27
  • msg #86

Re: The boy who cried "Wolf!"

OOC:  Zyphen definitely wants to be in range of the haste spell!!  I'll forgo concealment (for now) for that!
Atalakis
player, 17 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 30/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Thu 1 Nov 2007
at 15:53
  • msg #87

Re: The boy who cried "Wolf!"

Atalakis raises his lance, holding it firmly with both hands, he spurs his mount in the direction of the wolf. The orange streamers flutter through the air as he lowers the shining silver point at the wolf.




Atalakis will take -3 on his power attack. Damage would be doubled because of a charge attack. Power attack damage with a 2 handed weapon is doubled. So 1d8+4+6(PA) doubled is 2d8+20. I think that's how it would work! It's been months since Atal has been able to do a mounted charge.


11:51, Today: Atalakis rolled 26 using 2d8+20. Damage if it hits(doubled from charge).
11:47, Today: Atalakis rolled 24 using 1d20+7. Charge attack (PA -3).
11:46, Today: Atalakis rolled 10 using 1d20. Initiative.
DM Fletch
GM, 65 posts
More! You want more?!
Fri 2 Nov 2007
at 09:49
  • msg #88

Rd 1 and 1/2

The wolf leaps forward before anyone has time to react.  For one horrible moment it seems that it will attackZyphen as he scrambles for cover but at the last minute it jumps past him and attacks Cuaglar's pack horse.  Huge jaws close around the panicked creature's forequarters and wrench it to the ground.  Zyphen can breathe a sigh of relief but the noises being made by the unfortunate horse are far less pleasant.

Kanir responds by muttering the words of a spell and time warps slightly at his command as you all begin to move faster.

Thwarted in his attempts to remove his horse to safety, Cuaglar prepares to enter the fight, but Atalakis beats him to it.  The Pastel Paladin lowers his lance and charges, clearly enjoying the opportunity to fight from horseback.  He puts the full weight of his arm behind the blow and the wolf is impaled on his lance, driven back by the force of the blow.

Zyphen seizes the moment, levels his bow and shoots from close range at the creature while it is off-balance.  His arrow finds its mark and sinks deep into the wolf's shoulder.

Corven hangs back for the moment, choosing the benefits of learning over the way of the sword.
[Private to Corven: This is undoubtedly a dire wolf.  It looks thin to the point of emaciation.  It's probably starving after a lean winter, making it all the more dangerous.]

The wounds inflicted on the wolf are grievous.  The lance strike alone would have downed many lesser creatures.  Still the creatures desperate fury overwhelms its fear and it leaps to the attack once more.  Only Kanir's enchantment allows Atalakis to shift his weight in time, so that the wolf's fangs slide harmlessly of his armour instead of crushing his arm.

OOC: The pack horse takes 13HP damage and is prone.  Atalakis can thank Kanir for avoiding 17HP and the chance to be pulled to the ground.  Apologies to Cuaglar for interfering with his action.  He and Atalakis get first shot at the kill (though technically Kanir has the higher Init).
Zyphen
player, 54 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Fri 2 Nov 2007
at 14:04
  • msg #89

Re: Rd 1 and 1/2

Just in case Atalakis and Cuaglar don't kill it...

Zyphen, moving with preternatural speed, draws and fires three purple fletched arrows before the first of the three reaches the wolf.  The well-aimed arrows hiss through the air (presumably hitting, and one critically).



Attacks:  19, 30 (27 to confirm crit), 20.
Damage 10, 27, 10.
Total Damage:  47.

11:00, Today: Zyphen rolled 7 using 1d8+5. Additional crit damage!.
10:00, Today: Zyphen rolled 20 using 2d8+10. Damage for Crit Arrow.
09:59, Today: Zyphen rolled 10 using 1d8+5. Damage for Arrow 3.
09:59, Today: Zyphen rolled 10 using 1d8+5. Damage for Arrow 1.
09:59, Today: Zyphen rolled 27 using 1d20+10. Confirm crit on Shot 2.
09:59, Today: Zyphen rolled 20 using 1d20+10.
09:59, Today: Zyphen rolled 30 using 1d20+10.
09:58, Today: Zyphen rolled 19 using 1d20+10. 3 shots, PB, haste.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:01, Fri 02 Nov 2007.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 44 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Fri 2 Nov 2007
at 14:19
  • msg #90

Re: Rd 1 and 1/2

Cuaglar hurriedly drew his rapier from its sheath, and stabbed quickly forward to try to drive the wolf away from him, simultaneously shifting his feet to help dodge its jaws.

OOC: Using Dodge feat for +1 AC (first time I thought to use it, actually...)
Move action to draw sword,
10:18, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 26 using 1d20+9. Attack Roll (rapier)
10:18, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 4 using 1d6+1. Damage.
Kanir
player, 68 posts
Init +8, AC 12/10/12
HP 28/28, Saves +3/+3/+6
Mon 5 Nov 2007
at 15:04
  • msg #91

Re: Rd 1 and 1/2

The young wizard looks around to see if there are any more wolf incoming, and then pulls out a piece of bacon from his pouch, and start chewing a piece.

[Private to DM Fletch: Ready Action, if any new threat approaches within Grease Range, cast Grease underneath the new threat.]

-K
Atalakis
player, 18 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 30/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Tue 6 Nov 2007
at 22:43
  • msg #92

Re: Rd 1 and 1/2

Atalakis drops his lance and grabs his greatsword, spurring his mount to attack the wolf as he swings down with his sword.



Poor rolls - I doubt Atalakis or his mount will be landing any killing blows this round.

17:42, Today: Atalakis rolled 4 using 1d3+1. Bite Damage, if it hits.
17:41, Today: Atalakis rolled 14 using 1d20-1. Bite.
17:41, Today: Atalakis rolled 8 using 1d20+4. Hoof 2.
17:41, Today: Atalakis rolled 8 using 1d20+4. Hoof 1.
17:41, Today: Atalakis rolled 11 using 1d20+6. Ride - Fight with Warhorse.
17:39, Today: Atalakis rolled 8 using 1d20+7. Greatsword Attack (-2 PA).
DM Fletch
GM, 66 posts
More! You want more?!
Wed 7 Nov 2007
at 12:20
  • msg #93

Re: Rd 1 and 1/2

Following its failed attack against Atalakis the wolf finds itself awkwardly positioned between Cuaglar and Atalakis.

Kanir chooses not to engage the wolf directly.  He chews a piece of bacon taken from a pouch as he watches for any pack-mates.

OOC: I hope that bacon's dried or cured.  Otherwise rancid bacon's going to make grease an unattractive spell option.

At close quarters Atalakis dispenses with his lance and takes up his greatsword.  It's an intimidating weapon but it's no simple matter to wield one whilst mounted.  Atalakis manages to control his steed but his attack is poor.  His horses flailing hooves miss too, but takes some revenge for horse-kind by biting a piece out of the wolf.

Cuaglar steps forward on the wolf's far side and with a graceful economy of movement runs it through with his rapier.  The damage is not great but the collective wounds take their toll and the wolf sags.

Zyphen puts a decisive end to the fight, and the wolf's sufferings, by shooting it full of arrows.  One even punches through the wolf's eye.  There's no question that it's stone cold dead, it doesn't even twitch.

There's no sign of any other wolves so it seems the immediate danger has passed.
Zyphen
player, 56 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Wed 7 Nov 2007
at 12:32
  • msg #94

Re: Rd 1 and 1/2

When his final arrow punctures the wolf's eye, Zyphen drops his fourth, half-drawn arrow back into his quiver.  He glides forward to inspect the wolf.  "I saw no sign of pack-mates; it appears this one was a lone hunter."

Zyphen will do whatever is good to do with dead wolf bodies in the wild.  He will then resume his scouting routine.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 45 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Wed 7 Nov 2007
at 14:22
  • msg #95

Re: Rd 1 and 1/2

Cuaglar twirled his rapier around a bit before sliding it back into its sheath, marvelling at the great speed the spell had given him.  But eventually he had to move on, reminding himself to try to keep more alert, if events like these were likely to occur.
Atalakis
player, 20 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 30/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Wed 7 Nov 2007
at 17:01
  • msg #96

Re: Rd 1 and 1/2

Good work, friends. It is most fortunate we were able to down this beast and prevent possible harm to other travelers.

He pauses a moment, a thoughtful look on his face.

Hmm, now that I think of it, this seems most sinister. A creature of the forest so maddened and hostile that a skilled woodsmen such a Zyphen was unable to calm it...

Perhaps there is more to this encounter than meets the eye. Could it be that some vile foe might be driving the wildlife into such a killing frenzy? He looks to the others, with a serious and determined look in his eye.
Zyphen
player, 57 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Wed 7 Nov 2007
at 17:45
  • msg #97

Re: Rd 1 and 1/2

Zyphen continues his work hiding/burying/whatever the wolf body, not looking up.  "It was hungry after a lean winter.  You can see its ribs, here," Zyphen points.  "However," he continues dryly, "don't let that stop your conspiracy theories, paladin.  After all, the dire wolf could have been driven to a state of hunger deliberately.  Perhaps the Zhentarum have plotted to massacre all the deer within 20 miles, forcing the local dire wolf population to attack passers-by for sustenance.  As I scout, you should ask Corven about any local druid sects that might be involved in the plot--the Zhents must be getting their information from somewhere.  Perhaps you can discover another nest of 'evil' to smite on our return trip, no?"

"Just remember," he murmurs, turning from his work to look up at the paladin, face impassive, wind whipping his long hair, "as you chase your wild geese:  To the east wind in the town of Llork, you have a deflowered lady and a lawfully-elected mayor both praying for your swift return."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:50, Wed 07 Nov 2007.
Kanir
player, 70 posts
Init +8, AC 12/10/12
HP 28/28, Saves +3/+3/+6
Thu 8 Nov 2007
at 05:04
  • msg #98

Re: Rd 1 and 1/2

"Zhents?  W...where?", the young man swallows the bacon (Cured!) he was chewing.  He almost chokes.  He then starts biting his nails.

"We should hurry.  We shouldn't linger.  Let's g...go.", he hurries his horse along.

-K
DM Fletch
GM, 67 posts
More! You want more?!
Thu 8 Nov 2007
at 06:53
  • msg #99

Heading off

Much as Kanir would like to be away, Cuaglar's pack horse is not going anywhere just now.  The injury from the dire wolf's bite may not be immediately life threatening but in fairness it should either be healed or put down.  Otherwise the pain will make it difficult to handle and carrying a load will almost certainly send it lame.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 46 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Thu 8 Nov 2007
at 13:08
  • msg #100

Re: Heading off

As Cuaglar untied his horse (who should really have a name,) he said,
"Corven, could you help him, please?  That wolf gave him a terrible bite."
Corven
player, 12 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Thu 8 Nov 2007
at 14:51
  • msg #101

Re: Heading off

"Of course, just be on the lookout for more of those large wolves.  They travel in packs, so where there is one, there is bound to be many more."



OOC:  Hmm, can healing spells work on animals?  I don't remember in 3e - IIRC, in 2nd edition you had to have specific animal healing spells ...


Corven
player, 13 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Fri 9 Nov 2007
at 23:40
  • msg #102

Re: Heading off


Corven will bend over Cuaglar's horse, calming him with a touch.  A quick and simple prayer to Chauntea delivers a dull glow to the wound, which closes rapidly.



17:32, Today: Corven rolled 11 using 1d8+3. CLW on the Horse!.



DM Fletch
GM, 68 posts
More! You want more?!
Sun 11 Nov 2007
at 05:53
  • msg #103

Re: Heading off

Under Corven's ministrations the horse's wound is soon much improved.  As a group you spend a few minutes collecting and re-arranging the goods that spilled when the horse fell and Corven uses the time to settle the horse.  In short order you are ready to leave.

Unless anything is being done with the wolf carcass?

The rest of your journey to the trail-fork is uneventful.  It may be that the hills are peaceful or perhaps any other bandits or predators think better of attacking such a well-armed party.  From here the Keep is only a mile or two away but the trail is uphill all the way and quite steep.  Also, the spring afternoon is rapidly drawing to a close.  A decision needs to be made about when to approach the Keep.
Zyphen
player, 58 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Mon 12 Nov 2007
at 14:12
  • msg #104

Re: Heading off

Zyphen will do SOMETHING with the wolf carcass.  As I mentioned above, I am not sure what--I am not as woodsy as my ranger.  What is the best thing to do?  If the pelt is valuable I suppose we could skin it.  Otherwise, I am just thinking along the lines of burning it, burying it, or otherwise.

As to when to approach--as he scouts Zyphen will look for a secluded, hidden campsite.  Something where we would hopefully not be noticed and that might be easy to defend.  If we find something, Zyphen would recommend setting camp and approaching the keep in the morning (for the benefit of the humans).  Otherwise, we could press on.  Any comments?
Corven
player, 14 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Mon 12 Nov 2007
at 16:13
  • msg #105

Re: Heading off


Well, if this area is known for the walking dead, Corven would suggest burning the body if you aren't going to eat the meat.  Undead are scary enough - undead dire wolves are super scary!
Kanir
player, 72 posts
Init +8, AC 12/10/12
HP 28/28, Saves +3/+3/+6
Tue 13 Nov 2007
at 00:42
  • msg #106

Re: Heading off

"U...u...undead dire wolf???", the young man panicks when undead dire wolf is mentioned.  He immediately starts creating a bonfire to burn the wolf carcass.

OOC: Yeah, lets burn...

-K
Zyphen
player, 59 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Tue 13 Nov 2007
at 15:29
  • msg #107

Re: Heading off

Zyphen searches for a campsite....

10:29, Today: Zyphen rolled 19 using 1d20+7. Survival.
DM Fletch
GM, 70 posts
More! You want more?!
Wed 14 Nov 2007
at 12:35
  • msg #108

Re: Heading off

The area isn't known for the walking dead at least as far as I know, but since the mere mention of an undead beast is enough to startle Kanir, it's decided to burn the wolf's carcass - whole, since Zyphen decides the pelt is in such poor condition as to be worthless.

Setting the fire is easy enough but it takes a while to make sure the carcass is fully burnt and to be sure the fire isn't going to spread.  As a result it's evening by the time you reach the turn-off.

Zyphen finds a good campsite, screened from the track by a grove of trees and sheltered, almost enclosed, by the folds of the hillside.  It looks like it's going to be a chilly night, I hope you've all got extra blankets.
Zyphen
player, 60 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Wed 14 Nov 2007
at 15:03
  • msg #109

Re: Heading off

Zyphen goes about his normal routine of setting up camp:

Zyphen generally strings twine around the area of the camp, hanging it with small bells if there is no wind.  Anyone entering may snap the twine and ring the bells.  Also, if appropriate, Zyphen has earth-toned canvas to be used as a makeshift lean-to or tent that will provide at least some camouflage.  Zyphen has taught his owl how to guard the camp.  Snow is suited to guard duty, since owls are nocturnal anyway, and she has excellent low-light vision, the ability to move from perch to perch in near silence for better vantage points, a great listen score, and an excellent spot score in low light.  Whenever Zyphen sets up camp for the evening, after Snow has hunted for her supper, Zyphen sets her to watch the camp (taking 10 on his Animal Handling check).  She sits in some tree branch or other good vantage point, and whenever anything not recognized as a “friend” comes in sight, she hoots loudly enough to wake Zyphen.  If the creature comes too far into camp, Snow attacks, though hopefully she will break off if she gets injured.  If Snow wakes Zyphen, he immediately seeks a hiding place from which to watch or ambush any approaching creature.
Atalakis
player, 22 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 30/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Thu 15 Nov 2007
at 15:44
  • msg #110

Re: Heading off

Atalakis will begin his evening ritual of polishing his armor and cleaning up as he prepares for rest. I will take the first watch. Zyphen, second, Cuaglar, third.

Do druids need 8 hours of sleep or just rest? If they need sleep, he will leave it at that, if it's just rest and they can still get spells, he'll suggest Corven take the 4th watch.

He will leave his weapons in close reach, tend his horse, and make certain he and it are covered well enough to ward off the cold for the evening.

Sleep well, my comrades, for we have good works to do on the morrow.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:44, Thu 15 Nov 2007.
Corven
player, 15 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Thu 15 Nov 2007
at 18:20
  • msg #111

Re: Heading off


Corven yawns, "I can take the fourth watch if you want.  You need not worry - Tacky and I will keep us all safe!", as he pats his trusty horse down.
DM Fletch
GM, 71 posts
More! You want more?!
Sat 17 Nov 2007
at 02:18
  • msg #112

Re: Heading off

PM
[Private to Zyphen: In the early part of your watch, you hear Snow give a loud hoot.  Having attracted your attention she wings silently to a perch on the downhill side of the camp.  Looking in that direction you see the cause for her alarm.  Your superior night vision easily picks out six humanoid shapes pushing through the screen of trees.  Once they are through they fan out, two heading towards the higher ground on either side of your campsite and two blocking the lower end of the gully.  It's obvious that most are human or similar.  They're trying to move steathily but they can't see very well.]
Kanir
player, 74 posts
Init +12, AC 12/10/12
HP 28/28, Saves +7/+7/+10
Sat 17 Nov 2007
at 02:34
  • msg #113

Re: Heading off

The young wizard get ready to sleep in the warm fur coat, in the cold night.  Right before he goes to bed, he opens his book, and flips through a few pages, mumbling something.  He then casts 3 spells.  First spell glows all around him faintly blue.  Second spell momentarily changes his eyes to all black, almost dragonic.  After the third spell, he yawns long, and he bids good night to the campers.

[Private to DM Fletch: OK, finally got some time to post...sorry about being late a bit.

First, he prepares two spells into his un-prepared slots.  One is Vigilant Slumber, and the other one is Extended Mage Armor.  Then, he casts Extended Mage Armor first, then Vision of Omniscient Eye second.  This second spell will activate his Insightful Divination ability and increases his saving throw and initiative.  Third, he casts Vigilant Slumber, with "When someone in the camp is attacked" as a waking up condition, and he goes off to sleep...]

-K
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 48 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Mon 19 Nov 2007
at 13:17
  • msg #114

Re: Heading off

Cuaglar takes his rest willingly, lying down and sliding into the Trance, and when awoken for his watch, he constantly walks around the encampment, within the line of bells, keeping his eyes away from the fire so his night vision wouldn't be dulled.
Zyphen
player, 65 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Mon 19 Nov 2007
at 15:23
  • msg #115

Re: Heading off

During the second watch, you are woken (hopefully) to Zyphen's yell.  "Foes, awake!  Awake!  Six of them.  Humanoid.  Fanning out to flank us."  He moves and draws his bow as he speaks, heading towards a position of cover with line of sight on the attackers attempting to gain the high ground.  When he reaches the location, he hisses a melodic word in the tongue of the genies.  Silver mist spills from his mithril armor, concealing the genasi.  [Swift action; grants concealment; does not interfere with my vision.]

He will then strike first, if he can.  In the genasi's mind, anyone sneaking up on his camp in the dead of night is an enemy.  Drawing his iridescent bow, he pulls a purple fletched arrow to his cheek and draws a bead on an attacker attempting to gain the high ground.

- Move to cover, with LoS to high ground (tree, rock, something).  Move

Initiative:  9

Swift Action:  Activate Mithralmist Armor.  Fills space with silver mist (7/day, Swift). Mist lasts 1 min., grants concealment, does not interfere with user's vision, does not move.

Standard or Full Round Action:  Attack.

If Ambush round (just a Standard action):  1 arrow; Attack roll 26; damage 8.
If full round:  Rapid Shot.  Arrow 1, attack roll 24, damage 8; Arrow 2, attack roll 26 (did not confirm crit), damage 7.

In either case, Zyphen will shoot at one of the (presumably archers) moving to the high ground on either side of the camp.

Effects:  Concealment (1 minute, mist); possibly Cover.

10:16, Today: Zyphen rolled 30 using 1d20+10. Hide.
10:16, Today: Zyphen rolled 19 using 1d20+10. MS.
10:15, Today: Zyphen rolled 9 using 1d20+4. Init.
10:15, Today: Zyphen rolled 7 using 1d8+4. Arrow 2.
10:15, Today: Zyphen rolled 8 using 1d8+4. Arrow 1.
10:14, Today: Zyphen rolled 7 using 1d20+6. Confirm crit, 2nd arrow.
10:14, Today: Zyphen rolled 26 using 1d20+6. Second arrow, if full round.
10:13, Today: Zyphen rolled 26 using 1d20+8. Single arrow, ambush round?.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:48, Mon 19 Nov 2007.
Atalakis
player, 23 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 30/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Mon 19 Nov 2007
at 16:17
  • msg #116

Re: Heading off

Atalakis stands, wrapping his cloak around him and grabbing his sword and lance. Not having time to don his armor, he is clad in a warm, pastel tunic and thick woolen breeches. He moves quickly to untie and mount up on his horse.

Hail! The knight begins, with his trademark sparkling smile and a stylish flourish of his cloak, revealing his readied weapons. Tis a cold night and I could think of nothing more pleasant than hearing of the adventures of the Pastel Paladin by a warm fire. However, you have disguised your approach, which makes me wary. Be you friend or foe?

Atalakis will position himself within the light of the fire, not attempting to disguise himself. He would like to draw attention to himself and away from any of his companions.

If possible Atalakis will detect evil, and look around for a potential target to attack. If he could manage to position his horse for a charge, that would be ideal. If not that, positioning his horse near a tree so he could not be flanked so easily would be his next strategy.

11:06, Today: Atalakis rolled 10 using 1d20. Initiative.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:19, Mon 19 Nov 2007.
Kanir
player, 78 posts
Init +12, AC 12/10/12
HP 28/28, Saves +7/+7/+10
Mon 19 Nov 2007
at 16:28
  • msg #117

Re: Heading off

OOC: 11:20, Today: Kanir rolled 20 using 1d20+12. Initiative.

OK, so I'm not sure exactly what the status is (Woke up, not woke up, etcs), but I assume the Vigilant Slumber didn't kick in, but I got woken up by someone...push my action later if I didn't wake up until later)  Also, assume my bat familiar is flying around somewhere nearby as a good nocternal bat should be...

"Huh?  What?  Who?  Where's my Shadow?, K jumps up to wake when shaken by the elf.  He looks around to see what's going on, and where everyone is.

[Private to DM Fletch: Wake up, have the familiar back to get back as soon as possible, and listen and spot checks to see where everyone is and what's going on...Listen at +10 and Spot at +9, if actual rolls are needed.]

-K
Zyphen
player, 67 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Mon 19 Nov 2007
at 18:49
  • msg #118

Re: Heading off

Just noting that Zyphen does not wait for Atalakis to Diplomacize before he starts firing arrows; in fact, Zyphen doesn't even wait for Atalakis to wake up before he starts firing arrows.  He yells a warning as he moves to cover, activates his armor and starts firing.

When Atalakis finally gets around to hailing the enemy, Zyphen will hiss, "These men sought trouble this night, Paladin--give it to them!"  He punctuates this statement by firing an arrow at another humanoid.

Thinking quickly as he fires, Zyphen deems it likely these are the bandits we seek in the keep.  He adds in a low voice (pitched so that his opponents cannot hear), "Leave none alive to carry warning!"
This message was last edited by the player at 22:49, Mon 19 Nov 2007.
DM Fletch
GM, 75 posts
More! You want more?!
Tue 20 Nov 2007
at 09:59
  • msg #119

Night attack

The stillness of the night is broken by Zyphen's yelling, "Foes, awake!  Awake!  Six of them.  Humanoid.  Fanning out to flank us."  After that things happen very quickly.  Zyphen draws, fires, draws and fires again.  Two very neat shots and one of his proclaimed foes goes down, though whether he is dead or wounded is impossible to tell even with Zyphen's darkvision.

Atalakis reacts next, grabbing his sword and lance he moves to mount - discovers that he doesn't have enough hands to carry sword and lance and untie his horse's reins - discards his lance and mounts.  Unfortunately, the start of his speech is met by a rough voice from downslope calling, "We're sprung.  Attack!"  Two arrows accompany the command.  The Pastel Paladin astride his horse and silouetted by the firelight is an easy target.  One hits him in the chest and another arrow, longer and heavier than the first, hits him in the thigh.

On the side to which Zyphen fired there is only silence.  [Private to Zyphen: You see the standing brigand replace his axe with a bow and move to cover.  It was the two at the foot of the gully, including the probable leader, who shot Atalakis.]  From the other side come warcries and heavy footsteps, followed by a thud and a jangle of bells as one trips on Zyphen's string.  Kanir, who had been stirring groggily, finds himself instantly awake and alert.  The other brigand makes heavy going of charging uphill in the dark through undergrowth and runs out of steam just as he enters the light thrown by the fire.

OOC: Okay now we're in intiative order, they're definitely hostile.
1) The fire has burned down and now offers only 10' bright illumination and 10' shadows.  Please take illumination into account in your actions.
2) Cuaglir and Corven need to make Listen checks to wake up, DC 5, then you can act normally - though I remind you that moving from prone to standing is a move action.
3) Atalakis 10HP damage.  Also, charging in these conditions would be very hazardous.  Fortunately the charging brigand has done a fantastic job of isolating himself from his colleagues.  Feel free to take out any frustration you may be feeling :)
Atalakis
player, 24 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 30/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Tue 20 Nov 2007
at 14:02
  • msg #120

Re: Night attack

Atalakis will grunt in pain as the arrows strike him, doing his best to maintain his composure. A foul greeting indeed. Sune will share little love with you tonight.

He says as he guides his horse near the closest man. He skillfully controls the mount, urging into to attack as he swings down with his greatsword.

I am not sure what his AC is, so I rolled damage normally, and then rolled again in case it would be a crit (crit would be x2 damage, for 2d6+20 total).


Damage if not crit: 14
Damage if crit: 33

08:49, Today: Atalakis rolled 8 using 1d20-1. Bite.
08:49, Today: Atalakis rolled 11 using 1d20+4. Hoof 2.
08:49, Today: Atalakis rolled 8 using 1d20+4. Hoof 1.
08:49, Today: Atalakis rolled 20 using 1d20+6. Ride - Fight w/ Mount.
08:48, Today: Atalakis rolled 19 using 2d6+10. Bonus damage (if crit).
08:48, Today: Atalakis rolled 19 using 1d20+5. Greatsword - Critical Confirm.
08:47, Today: Atalakis rolled 14 using 2d6+10. Greatsword Damage.
08:46, Today: Atalakis rolled 24 using 1d20+5. Greatsword Attack (PA -3).
Zyphen
player, 74 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Tue 20 Nov 2007
at 14:44
  • msg #121

Re: Night attack

(From his position behind ___ [fill in the blank if Zyphen achieved cover],) Zyphen tracks the archer heading for cover, drawing and firing twice.  As he does so, he speaks a melodic word in Auren, the language of the genies, and silvery mist begins to pour from his armor.  [Note:  If I moved out of the Firelight, and these guys don't have Darkvision, I might not need the Mist to get Concealment.  But I am not sure about any of that, so I am going to use it anyway.]

Initiative: 9
Free Action: None
Swift Action: Activate Mithralmist Armor (silver mist - concealment)
Move Action: Full Round
Standard Action: Full round, Rapid Shot at archer taking cover

Attack Rolls: 8, 23, 15 (haste arrow, if applicable).
Potential Damage: 0, 10, 5 (haste arrow, if applicable).

Effects: Silver Mist, 10 rounds (grants Concealment (20% miss), my square only, does not interfere with my vision, does not move).

NOTE:  Any Haste bonus to hit is NOT included in the above.  The 15 attack roll and the commicerate 5 damage are the haste arrow if applicable.


This message was last edited by the player at 18:56, Wed 21 Nov 2007.
Kanir
player, 84 posts
Init +12, AC 16/14/12
HP 28/28, Saves +7/+7/+10
Tue 20 Nov 2007
at 16:01
  • msg #122

Re: Night attack

"Nielánial thraerleniel thialalas rinaeniel tenánindiel tirinleniad sinorbrnar aelowélril."

Fully awake, the young wizard takes a bit out of a licorice root in a big hurry, and spit it out quickly.  His crap spreads the smell of licorice to permiate in the air and as before, friends begin to blur and your perception of the world begins to slow...

OOC: OK, standing up, and casting Haste.  Priorities are Atalakis, Dovain, Cuaglar, Corven, Atalakis' mount, my self, Corven's Animal Companion, my familiar, in that order.  I can only affect those who I can see, and I can affect only 5, so let us know who's hasted, Fletch.

Remember the haste bonus, everyone

-K
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 49 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Tue 20 Nov 2007
at 16:13
  • msg #123

Re: Night attack

Cuaglar finally awoke, hearing loud yells and the whistle of arrows flying through the air.  He turned his head, and saw the battle going on around him.  The elf grabbed his bow lying beside him and slung his quiver over his shoulder as he rose to his feet, reaching for an arrow.

OOC: 11:08, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 18 using 1d20+2. Listen check.
11:10, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 13 using 1d20+4. Initiative.
I think the process of getting up and arming myself took two move actions...  My sword is still lying by my bedroll.
DM Fletch
GM, 76 posts
More! You want more?!
Fri 23 Nov 2007
at 11:26
  • msg #124

Rd 2 round-up

Kanir takes advantage of his sudden alertness to cast his favourite spell.  His friends speed up, the world slows down.  Atalakis+mount, Zyphen, Cuaglar and Corven all hasted

Atalakis guides his horse towards the lone brigand, using only his knees.  His greatsword rises and falls in one fluid motion and the brigand drops almost soundlessly, killed instantly as his skull is split wide apart.

Cuaglar wakes and comes to his feet bow in hand.  Noting that Atalakis is hurt, he takes the opportunity to move away from the firelight into the shadows of the night.  His elven eyes can make out the brigands with bows standing downhill from the camp. Taking advantage of Haste for you by moving into concealment

Zyphen fires off three arrows with unnatural speed.  The first misses and the third is blocked by the tree behind which the brigand has taken shelter but the second strikes squarely and the brigand grunts in pain.

Sorry Corven, couldn't wait for you.  I'll count you as refocusing this round, so you go at the top of the initiative automatically.

The brigand to one side trades arrows with Zyphen.  Zyphen is disadvantaged by his chosen ground since there are no trees close by that are tall enough to offer cover while still using his longbow.  On the other hand, the shot is poor and it is a simple matter for Zyphen to twist away from the arrow.

Atalakis is not so fortunate.  He is hit by two more arrows from the foot of the gully.  It is perhaps for the best that whomever is wielding the larger bow is the worse shot.

The brigand who tripped over the string and bells set-up scrambles to his feet and retreats to join the other two.  There is still no sign of the sixth assailant who fell to Zyphen's arrows.

Another 9HP damage to Atalakis.  Atalakis, Zyphen and Cuaglar can see okay courtesy of low-light vision or darkvision.  Kanir and Corven can't see any of the brigands, who will count as having total concealment against them.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 50 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Fri 23 Nov 2007
at 13:20
  • msg #125

Re: Rd 2 round-up

Cuaglar bent his bow once more, towards the archers further along down the hill.  His arrow sped close, but at this distance he couldn't tell whether it was going to strike down his mark.  As he was much faster now, however, he swiftly plucked another arrow from his quiver and launched it at a different bandit.

OOC: 08:18, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 16 using 1d20+10. Longbow Attack roll.
08:20, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 5 using 1d8. Damage if hit.
Second attack:
16:03, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 16 using 1d20+10. Attack roll 2.
16:03, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 3 using 1d8. Damage if hit.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:04, Sat 24 Nov 2007.
Zyphen
player, 76 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Fri 23 Nov 2007
at 23:09
  • msg #126

Re: Rd 2 round-up

Three more arrows fly from the cloud of silver mist with perternatural speed, aimed at the brigand archer hiding behind the tree.  As he fires, Zyphen will call out locations and distances of brigands for the night-blind.

Round: 2
Initiative: 9
Free Action: None
Swift Action: None
Move Action: Full Round
Standard Action: Full round, Rapid Shot at archer taking cover

Attack Rolls: 13, 24, 9.
Potential Damage: -, 8, -.

Effects:

Silver Mist, 9 rounds (grants Concealment (20% miss), my square only, does not interfere with my vision, does not move).

Haste:  ? rounds remaning.  A hasted creature gains a +1 bonus on attack rolls and a +1 dodge bonus to AC and Reflex saves.  +30 move; +1 attack on full attack.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:10, Fri 23 Nov 2007.
Atalakis
player, 25 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 11/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Mon 26 Nov 2007
at 03:27
  • msg #127

Re: Rd 2 round-up

Atalakis sucks in his breath as the arrows cut into his body. He scans the terrain, noticing the distance between him and the bandits, and then guides his horse to the nearest cover.


Round: 2
Initiative: 10
Free Action: None
Swift Action: None
Move Action: Move behind tree, trying to gain full cover if possible.
Standard Action: Lay hands on self to heal for 9 hp.

Attack Rolls: NA
Potential Damage: NA
Effects: Haste

Kanir
player, 91 posts
Init +12, AC 22/20/12
HP 28/28, Saves +7/+7/+10
Tue 27 Nov 2007
at 16:16
  • msg #128

Re: Rd 2 round-up

Becisien zack grad tity odrishremiel.
Doni idogre corya akiterar rejus.

The young mage chants again, and this time, claps his hands right above his forehead.

He then hunches over, and his forehead starts to manifest scales and they start to spread throughout his face and neck, and within seconds, his whole body is covered with scaly skin.  As the scales spreads through his back, spines pops out of his hunched back.  When the transformation is done, he sprints forward to the edge of the bonfire light as he grawl.

OOC: Cast Alter Self, to take on Troglodyte Form.  Move forward (up to 30') to the edge of the bonfire light where he can clearly see himself.

-K
Corven
player, 17 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Tue 27 Nov 2007
at 23:44
  • msg #129

Re: Rd 2 round-up

Corven lies prone on the ground, warily looking into the night for the glint of arrows as the brigands attack once again.  When he feels that it's safe, he begins to cast a spell, calling upon the power of Chauntea to summon a guardian.




Corven will choose to summon a Dire Badger (hopefully the low light vision and the scent abilities will allow it to cause some trouble!

Round: 2
Initiative: 9
Free Action: None
Swift Action: None
Move Action: None
Standard Action: Cast Summon Nature's Ally 2.

Attack Rolls: NA
Potential Damage: NA
Effects: Haste

16:33, Today: Corven rolled 9 using 1d20-5. Corven Init.


DM Fletch
GM, 79 posts
More! You want more?!
Wed 28 Nov 2007
at 13:17
  • msg #130

Rd 3 Round-up

Corven sensible chooses to keep his head down.  No point making himself a target with so many arrows flying back and forth through the night.  The guardian he summons seems more aggressive, though.  Even as it appears it begins snuffling at the air picking up the scent of its enemies.

Kanir casts another spell, this one transforming him into an reptilian humanoid that's on the pretty side of hideous - barely.  The protection of his new leathery hide seems to give him confidence and he runs forward to the very edge of the fire's light.  Remind me Kanir, you don't get Stench or the Trog's vision do you?

Cuaglar and Zyphen both return fire.  Cuaglar hits twice, injuring one of the brigands clustered together downhill.  Zyphen hits only once but proves himself the more dangerous archer.  His target is left cursing the inadequate cover of the tree between them (and grieviously wounded).

Atalakis decides he's had enough of being a pincushion and turns his steed towards a clump of vegetation.  Once screened from view he calls upon his strength of faith for healing.

From the brigand's leader you hear a shout, "Gods help us, they've spellcasters.  Leg it, boys!"  The two brigands injured by Zyphen (including the one who went to ground) crash back through the bush towards the sound of the voice.  The three standing together loose their arrows at Kanir then turn to join their fleeing comrades.  They don't wait to see whether they have hit, which is probably just as well.  Two of the arrows miss badly, but the leader's shot is lucky and Kanir finds himself struggling for breath as he peers down at the arrow jutting from his chest.

OOC: The brigands are fleeing back towards the path and are now out of sight of everyone but Zyphen, although anyone with dark- or low-light vision should have no trouble finding them again (i.e. moving back within sight range this turn) if you want to pursue.  Kanir -15HP (and very lucky I didn't roll higher on the damage 3d8+9)
Zyphen
player, 79 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Wed 28 Nov 2007
at 13:42
  • msg #131

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

"Don't let them escape!" Zyphen hisses.  "They will bring word of our approach.  They should not be able to outrun us."  As he speaks, he continues firing arrows with preternatural speed, aiming at the injured bandits.  [Zyphen is attempting to bring them to staggered or unconscious; something where they cannot flee.  He will divide his arrows accordingly.]

Round: 3
Initiative: 9
Free Action: Talk
Swift Action: None
Move Action: Full Round
Standard Action: Full round, Rapid Shot at injured bandits, trying to knock them into staggered or unconscious, so dividing arrows accordingly.

Attack Rolls: 27 (threat, 9 to confirm), 22, 14.
Potential Damage: 7, 8, 8.

Effects:

Silver Mist, 8 rounds (grants Concealment (20% miss), my square only, does not interfere with my vision, does not move).

Haste:  ? rounds remaining.  A hasted creature gains a +1 bonus on attack rolls and a +1 dodge bonus to AC and Reflex saves.  +30 move; +1 attack on full attack.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:45, Wed 28 Nov 2007.
Atalakis
player, 26 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 20/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Wed 28 Nov 2007
at 14:00
  • msg #132

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Atalakis finishes healing the worst of the wounds by holding his hands over them, a red glow filling the space between. Ah, Lady Love, you are too kind to me. He says with renewed vigor.

He then raises his voice. Yes, stop them! We cannot have them continuing to spread such mayhem across the land.

Atalakis will spur his horse and chase them. He will perform a charge attack on the nearest one. It will be a ride by attack. Thus he will hit one and continue riding past to attack the next one on the following round.

The horse charges at a move of 180'.

Round: 3
Initiative: 10
Free Action: Talk
Swift Action: NA
Move Action: Charge
Standard Action: Charge

Attack Rolls: 11 (Dice Roller does not reflect the haste bonus)
Potential Damage: -
Effects: Haste.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 54 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Wed 28 Nov 2007
at 14:33
  • msg #133

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Cuaglar was not so eager for the chase, and stayed by the fire in case the bandits' flight was feined.  If Atalakis' steed and Zyphen's fleet feet couldn't overtake them, then Cuaglar certainly couldn't.  He took a stand between Kweek and Corven, defending them so that the druid could help the poor wizard.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:52, Wed 28 Nov 2007.
Kanir
player, 94 posts
Init +12, AC 22/20/12
HP 13/28, Saves +7/+7/+10
Wed 28 Nov 2007
at 15:18
  • msg #134

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

"Aguh...", the young mage find himself with an arrow sticking on his chest, and arrowhead is sticking out behind his back as well.  He struggles to breath, and hacks some fluid out.  Apparently it punctured his lung straight through.

Still unable to see clearly in the night, he decides to stay put, with his hands on his knees and breathing as best as he could.

OOC: I'll just stay at the camp now :P

-K
Corven
player, 18 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Wed 28 Nov 2007
at 16:09
  • msg #135

Re: Rd 3 Round-up


Seeing the blood gushing from the mage's chest, Corven begins to crawl on the ground towards the injured young man.  "Stay still, I'll be there soon!", he whispers.
Atalakis
player, 27 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 20/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Thu 29 Nov 2007
at 12:45
  • msg #136

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

07:44, Today: Atalakis rolled 15 using 1d20+6. Ride.
DM Fletch
GM, 82 posts
More! You want more?!
Sat 1 Dec 2007
at 02:17
  • msg #137

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

As the brigands flee, Corven begins to crawl across to the wounded Kanir.  It's slow progress but he will be able to attend to the young mage next turn.  Kanir simply crouches over and tries to ease his laboured breathing.  Cuaglar can see no immediate threat but moves to protect the spellcasters just in case.

It is left to Zyphen, Atalakis and the badger to attack the brigands.  Zyphen sends another barrage of arrows in their direction, targeting the two he has already wounded.  He is gratified to see that he has hit both and they crumple to the ground.

The badger has heard the ruckus caused by the brigands and growls once before launching itself in pursuit.  While it can see better than its target it cannot move much faster and it may take some time to catch up.

Atalakis has no such problems, his enhanced steed is faster than the wind and it is just as well that he too is hasted as it takes all his skill to guide his steed in its blind charge.  Unfortunately, this leaves little time to concentrate on his attack and the brigands simply dive to one side as Atalakis rushes through.  He is forced to rein in not more than 20' feet past the brigands.  To continue the charge unchecked into the thicket ahead would likely kill both horse and rider.

OOC: I used DC 10 to charge over the uneven ground +5 for the poor light, meaning that you just succeeded with 15.  To continue into the thicket increased DC to 20 and I was counting fail by 1-5 as a safe stop and 6+ as wounded horse and a thrown rider.

The brigand's leader pulls up and stops his two surviving companions by the crude expedient of grabbing them.  "Gotta stop Sir Prissy or we'll never make it away.  With me boys!"  He ditches his bow and closes to engage Atalakis in melee, his two fellows do likewise.

[Private to Atalakis: The leader is a half-orc of considerable size.  He wields a bastard sword all too comfortably.  The other brigands only have hand axes.  The leader hits you with a heavy blow 13HP.  To his left, the brigand swings at the larger shape of your horse Ride check DC 19 or 5HP.  The brigand to his right is disoriented by the darkness and misses badly.]
[Private to Zyphen: The leader is a half-orc of considerable size.  He wields a bastard sword all too comfortably.  The other brigands only have hand axes.  The leader hits Atalakis with a heavy blow.  To his left, the brigand swings at the larger shape of Atalakis' horse.  The brigand to his right is disoriented by the darkness and misses badly]
Atalakis
player, 28 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 20/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Sat 1 Dec 2007
at 03:43
  • msg #138

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Noting the danger is squaring off with three opponents alone and unarmored, Atalakis will reign in his horse and withdraw.



Atalakis will withdraw and move max distance, so they would be unable to close on him, even with a charge. His primary focus would be to avoid getting hit by the half-orc, so if he is threatened in a way that will provoke AoOs, he will withdraw in a way that avoids AoOs from the half-orc.

If he sees cover, he will ride behind it, in case they decide to use ranged weapons. The more cover the better.


Round: 4
Initiative: 10
Free Action: None
Swift Action: None
Move Action: Withdraw
Standard Action: Withdraw

Attack Rolls: NA
Potential Damage: NA
Effects: Haste


22:36, Today: Atalakis rolled 22 using 1d20+6. Ride .
This message was last edited by the player at 04:59, Sat 01 Dec 2007.
Zyphen
player, 82 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Sat 1 Dec 2007
at 04:29
  • msg #139

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Zyphen takes aim at the leader, firing off a constant blur of purple-fletched arrows that hiss out of the mist and shimmer briefly in the firelight before finding their targets.  "Fool!," he mutters as Atalakis charges off into the darkness.  Then more loudly, "Do not die, paladin!  You are no good to me dead."

Round: 4
Initiative: 9
Free Action: None
Swift Action: None
Move Action: Full Round
Standard Action: Full round, Rapid Shot at Leader

Attack Rolls: 8, 22, 24.
Potential Damage: -, 13, 9.

Note that the damage includes my Favored Enemy +2 vs. humans.  I had been forgetting that until now--whoops!

Effects:

Silver Mist, 7 rounds (grants Concealment (20% miss), my square only, does not interfere with my vision, does not move).

Haste:  ? rounds remaining.  A hasted creature gains a +1 bonus on attack rolls and a +1 dodge bonus to AC and Reflex saves.  +30 move; +1 attack on full attack.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:53, Sat 01 Dec 2007.
Kanir
player, 98 posts
Init +12, AC 22/20/12
HP 13/28, Saves +7/+7/+10
Sun 2 Dec 2007
at 01:21
  • msg #140

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

With the extra sound of crushes of steel, the scale covered young mage straighten up a little bit.  He chants briefly, claps his hands together then slaps his hands onto the top of his feet.  His feet and legs blurs briefly, just like when the 5 men were blurred earlier, but only legs this time.  He starts to dash into the moonlight.

OOC: Cast Expeditious Retreat, and move at 60' ground speed, in the general direction of the combat...just tell me what happened, and if I see any sort of target...

-K
Corven
player, 19 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Sun 2 Dec 2007
at 04:18
  • msg #141

Re: Rd 3 Round-up


Corven blinks as the mage disappears into the night.  "Wait ..." he calls out in vain, but his cry is lost in the distance.  Sighing, he nods towards Tacky, his faithful companion and steed.  "I guess it's just you and me now!"
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 57 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Wed 5 Dec 2007
at 13:43
  • msg #142

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Cuaglar shrugged at Corven, as he took off after Kweek as well, nocking another arrow to his string as he jogged, the landscape speeding under his feet.

OOC:
Hustling at 120 feet per round, until I catch up to the action.
DM Fletch
GM, 86 posts
More! You want more?!
Thu 6 Dec 2007
at 01:57
  • msg #143

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Kanir and Cuaglar rush towards the fight erupting further down the hill.  Kanir who pauses to cast another spell (and who can't see as well) only gets close enough to make out the darkened shapes of the combatants, seen for a moment and then gone as they move against the shadowy backdrop of the trees behind.  Cuaglar has no such limitations and finds himself close enough to reach out and touch the combatants, so it's a shame he left his sword back at the camp.  Corven, who is back at the camp, finds himself alone and starts talking to his horse.  Fortunately, he's a druid so it's not that strange.

Atalakis disengages from the melee with ease as none of the brigands have a hope of matching his horse's speed.  Indeed they show no signs of following and would probably have continued their flight if a super-sized badger hadn't jumped amongst them.  One of the bandits finds himself bleeding from four bloody gashes from a swipe of the badger's claws.

Zyphen is trained at picking out targets in such situations.  His first arrow misses, but a slight adjustment sees his second arrow hit.  The brigand looks badly wounded and the third arrow would surely have dropped him except that Zyphen has to pull his shot as Kanir and Cuaglir move between Zyphen and his target.

The brigands, who are now desperate to get away, turn their attention on the badger.  The leader strikes another heavy blow, opening a horrible wound in the badger's flank.  One of the other brigands hits with his axe, while the other misses.  The badger is all but dead on its feet, but the injuries it has suffered just seem to make it angry.

OOC: The badger takes 25 of 28HP.  But now its raging :)  The two brigands are both badly hurt but their leader is, as yet, uninjured.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 58 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Thu 6 Dec 2007
at 14:11
  • msg #144

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Cuaglar, realizing he was going much faster than was needed, stopped sixty feet behind, and began loosing arrows, walking quickly forward again if they began moving beyond reasonable bow-shot.

OOC: Does 'haste' require a full-round action to get off that extra attack?
09:09, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 17 using 1d20+10. Attack Roll (Against the leader).
09:09, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 5 using 1d8. Damage if hit
Also, I am keeping 60 feet away from the bandits, but if they start to get beyond 100 feet (the range of my bow) I am moving forward 60 ft. per round until they are within 100 ft. again.
Corven
player, 20 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Thu 6 Dec 2007
at 14:32
  • msg #145

Re: Rd 3 Round-up


Corven will remain near the campfire, wishing good luck upon his Badger of Doom as he listens to the sounds of the combat.
Kanir
player, 103 posts
Init +12, AC 22/20/12
HP 13/28, Saves +7/+7/+10
Thu 6 Dec 2007
at 15:00
  • msg #146

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

The the young mage who sports a scaley look keeps dashing towards the sound of the combat with an unnatural speed.  As he approaches the sources of the crush of the combat, he grabs a pinch of powder from his pouch.  Once he is as close to the enemies as possible, he starts chanting,

Tuaeabsa tallo dixirtu mumome quaenoe hoisee idmequae eoacu.

He claps the hand as he chants, with the ground powered mica in his hand, creating the puff of dust in front of his face.  Immediately after the end of the chant, he blows off the puff of dust, creating a shimmering glitterdust towards the combat.

OOC: Move action to move 60' towards the melee combat, and get as close to the combat as K can, getting into melee combat if possible.  Then cast Glitterdust (defensively if K is in the melee range).  Hopefully covering all the enemies and not friendlies, but I'll let you decide how it works out, Fletch...Will save DC 15 to avoid getting blinded, whoever is covered with the glitterdust.

[Private to DM Fletch: 09:46, Today: Kanir rolled 28 using 1d20+10. Castng Glitterdust Defensively if needed.]

-K
Atalakis
player, 30 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 7/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Thu 6 Dec 2007
at 15:56
  • msg #147

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Atalakis will look for Corven and ride towards him.

Corven, my good man, it seems my good looks, striking as they may be, are not enough to ward off the blows of these ne'er-do-wells. It seems some of your helpful magics will be in order. As he speaks, he looks from Corven to his wounds, then reaches down, grabbing his pastel blue tunic delicately between his fingers, around where one of the cuts were. He frowns and sighs as he notices the dark red stain upon the fabric.

It was folly to only bring one change of clothes.
Zyphen
player, 88 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Thu 6 Dec 2007
at 17:23
  • msg #148

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Zyphen continues silently firing arrows, adjusting his position slightly, if necessary, to get a clean shot.

OOC:  I am not sure what happened with the "Zyphen had to pull his shot" thing, so I am not sure how to react to it.  Maybe it was just flavor text?  My understanding is that PCs are soft cover, and would give my opponent a +4 AC or something like that, but that I can fire past them.  Is that correct?  The third roll was a 24.

Zyphen will take a 5' step to avoid the soft-cover thing if he can.  I will finish off the wounded bandits first, then concentrate on the leader.  Thanks!

Round: 5
Initiative: 9
Free Action: 5' step if helpful
Swift Action: None
Move Action: Full Round
Standard Action: Full round, Rapid Shot, injured bandit then leader

Attack Rolls: 15, 14, 19.
Potential Damage: 7, 14, 14.

Note that the damage includes my Favored Enemy +2 vs. humans.

Effects:

Silver Mist, 7 rounds (grants Concealment (20% miss), my square only, does not interfere with my vision, does not move).  NOTE:  Will step out of it if I have to do so to get a straight LoS.

Haste:  ? rounds remaining.  A hasted creature gains a +1 bonus on attack rolls and a +1 dodge bonus to AC and Reflex saves.  +30 move; +1 attack on full attack.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:25, Thu 06 Dec 2007.
Corven
player, 21 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Fri 7 Dec 2007
at 20:44
  • msg #149

Re: Rd 3 Round-up


Corven jumps to his feet and nods at the multicolored paladin.  "It is difficult being a champion of virtue, justice, and a balanced wardrobe."  As Corven begins to call upon Chauntea to heal his wounded companion, he remarks, "Perhaps you might devise some alternate coloring scheme, so that your valiant spilled blood will add a rich vividness to your outfit, instead of potentially destroying your fine shirt."




Cast a Cure Light Wounds on the paladin.

13:43, Today: Corven rolled 7 using 1d8+3. Corven, CLW.


DM Fletch
GM, 88 posts
More! You want more?!
Sat 8 Dec 2007
at 04:46
  • msg #150

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Kanir takes advantage of his improved speed to move up until he is within arms reach of the melee of badger and brigand.  Invoking his magics once more a cloud of bright glitter billows out and settles over the combatants.  The badger and one brigand shake off its effects, the other brigand and their leader seem to get some in their eyes and are momentarily blinded.

The timing could not be worse as the enraged badger attacks; scratching, clawing and biting at the enemies around it.  Each and every blow strikes home against the hapless brigands.

Cuaglar and Zyphen fire into the melee.  In a display of remarkably precise shooting, their arrows drop all three remaining foes.

Any chance of questioning the brigand's leader is soon lost as the badger continues to bite and claw until all that remains is a shredded and thoroughly dead corpse.  The other two bandits might still be stabilised but only if you act quickly.

Back at the camp, Corven attends to the healing of Atalakis and the paladin is relieved to see some of his wounds close.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:48, Sat 08 Dec 2007.
Zyphen
player, 94 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Sat 8 Dec 2007
at 05:54
  • msg #151

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Zyphen moves forward quickly, calling as he does, "Corven, Atalakis, save one of these bandits.  They have information we could use.  Quickly!"  Zyphen will try to staunch the bleeding on one of the bandits himself, but he was trained as an assassin, not as a healer.  His ministrations have no effect.  [Healing check:  2!!]
Corven
player, 22 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Sat 8 Dec 2007
at 14:32
  • msg #152

Re: Rd 3 Round-up


Hearing Zyphen's call, Corven quickly runs to the battleground, and attempts to staunch the flow of bleeding from one of the injured bandits, if time permits (although it doesn't seem to help much).



Next round I can cast a healing spell if needed.

08:31, Today: Corven rolled 9 using 1d20+6. Corven Heal roll.


Kanir
player, 110 posts
Init +12, AC 22/20/12
HP 13/28, Saves +7/+7/+10
Sat 8 Dec 2007
at 17:30
  • msg #153

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

The scaley mage with an arrow sticking on his chest end up on his butt, sitting down to catch some breath.  Soon after, a shadowy flutter flies by and hangs onto his shoulder.  "Hey, where were you?  Coulda used your help.", the wizard smiles in relief and talks to the little bat on his shoulder, as it apparently has a piece of fruit hanging on his little mouth and appears to shrug.

-K
Atalakis
player, 31 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 7/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Mon 10 Dec 2007
at 23:39
  • msg #154

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Corven:
Corven jumps to his feet and nods at the multicolored paladin.  "It is difficult being a champion of virtue, justice, and a balanced wardrobe."  As Corven begins to call upon Chauntea to heal his wounded companion, he remarks, "Perhaps you might devise some alternate coloring scheme, so that your valiant spilled blood will add a rich vividness to your outfit, instead of potentially destroying your fine shirt."




Cast a Cure Light Wounds on the paladin.

13:43, Today: Corven rolled 7 using 1d8+3. Corven, CLW.



Atalakis looked thoughtful as the druid tended to his wounds. Hmm, a new color scheme. That is a thought. I will have to think on it more.

 He shakes his head. Yes, we still have to see about our enemies.

Atalakis will ride after Corven.
DM Fletch
GM, 89 posts
More! You want more?!
Tue 11 Dec 2007
at 09:09
  • msg #155

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

With the battle over Zyphen and Corven attempt to revive one of the felled brigands so that he (or they) can be questioned about the Keep.  Zyphen finds that his attempts to staunch the brigand's bleeding cause the poor fellow to go into shock and expire.  Corven is better trained (and less brutally direct) although even he is momentarily at a loss as to how to stabilise someone filled with so many arrows.

In the meantime, Kanir is reunited with his familiar, Atalakis ponders the benefits of a wardorbe change and the badger continues to worry the corpse of the brigand's leader - hopefully, the conjuration will end before it turns its attention elsewhere.

OOC: 3 brigands are dead, 3 (including the one Corven is helping) are either unconscious or their status is unknown.
Zyphen
player, 97 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Tue 11 Dec 2007
at 18:02
  • msg #156

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Zyphen will carefully wipe the blood from his hands on the grass, then move to where Corven is attempting to stop the bleeding of the other brigand.  Zyphen will do what he can to help.  Taking in the contemplative paladin, Zyphen snaps, "Paladin, when you are finished meditating on how to work blood-red into a wardrobe of pastels, we could use your help on what might be a slightly more pressing matter:  Dying men who have valuable information."

Aid Other roll:  12.
Atalakis
player, 32 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 14/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Wed 12 Dec 2007
at 14:07
  • msg #157

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Seemingly oblivious to Zyphen's comment, Atalakis brushes lightly at the stain on his tunic and sighs once again, as he spurs his mount closer to the group. Unfortunate as it may seem, their actions brought them to this point. It is good of you to ease their suffering. Sune shows her love in mysterious ways, even to those who have committed grievous acts of wrongdoing.

You seem to have matters well in hand here. I will keep an eye out for further threats.

He will spur his mount forward and keep an eye on the surrounding area, his glance shifting from tree to tunic, obtaining an optimal balance of vigilance and narcissism.
Corven
player, 24 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Wed 12 Dec 2007
at 14:34
  • msg #158

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

"Hmm," Corven mutters, as his ministrations did not seem to stop the bleeding.  Realizing that the man was close to death, he quickly chants a prayer to Chauntea, and lightly touches one of the wounds.



Cast a Cure Minor Wounds on one of the injured bandits.

Minor, not Moderate ><.


This message was last edited by the player at 15:47, Wed 12 Dec 2007.
DM Fletch
GM, 90 posts
More! You want more?!
Sat 15 Dec 2007
at 01:54
  • msg #159

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

With a quick prayer to Chauntea Corven stops the brigand from dying.  He's still unconscious though and even with further medical attention it is questionable whether he will wake any time soon.

A DC 15 Heal check will be required to remove the arrows and speed healing.  That or another spell.  Otherwise he could be comatose for days.
There are two other brigands who may yet be saved if you are so inclined and I will be interested to see how you deal with the 'rescued' brigand.
Zyphen
player, 98 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Sat 15 Dec 2007
at 19:08
  • msg #160

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Zyphen will secure the bandit's hands behind his back with a set of well-made manacles he purchased in the last town to replace those "stolen" by the captured wizard-boy.  He will then carefully tie the man's feet with silk rope.  [Masterwork Manacles; 24 Use Rope check on Take 20.]  He then turns to Corven and Atalakis.

"Druid, Paladin, if you are going to memorize spells or pray to the gods for your abilities again on the morrow, you may as well heal this bandit tonight.  It is possible we will be attacked again before dawn.  We do not know if this was simply a patrol that stumbled upon us, or if word reached the bandits of our approach and current location.  This man might be able to tell us if we need to move camps--among other things."
Corven
player, 27 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Mon 17 Dec 2007
at 03:04
  • msg #161

Re: Rd 3 Round-up


"If you want me to, I will use my remaining healing magics to heal this wounded man.  But what about the remaining wounded men?  They will die without quick attention ..."
Zyphen
player, 100 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Mon 17 Dec 2007
at 14:27
  • msg #162

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Zyphen shrugs.  "We are likely to only need one.  Heal one, and tell him he will go the way of his companions if he does not talk.  I doubt the bandits respect altruism. Saving the others would just burden us with carrying them or killing them. "
Atalakis
player, 35 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 14/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Tue 18 Dec 2007
at 14:35
  • msg #163

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

I can do no more to help these men tonight, except say a prayer bidding Sune to treat them well in the afterlife.

Atalakis will continue to circuit the area, keeping an eye out for other enemies and will return to camp once matters have been addressed with their fallen foes.
Corven
player, 28 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Tue 18 Dec 2007
at 14:46
  • msg #164

Re: Rd 3 Round-up


Corven shrugs.  "Well, you're in charge here ..." he mutters, as he begins another healing prayer.



07:44, Today: Corven rolled 11 using 1d8+3. CLW on Bandit.


DM Fletch
GM, 91 posts
More! You want more?!
Wed 19 Dec 2007
at 11:39
  • msg #165

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

The bandit regains consciousness with a start.  He looks around for a moment, re-orienting himself, then groans once and lies back with his eyes closed.  His wounds have not closed completely but two of the arrows have worked loose and he is breathing more easily.  There's no doubt that he's conscious, he's probably just wishing that he wasn't.
Zyphen
player, 101 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Thu 20 Dec 2007
at 00:09
  • msg #166

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Zyphen will pull the man into a seated position with an ease that belies his slight frame.  Propping the wounded bandit against a tree, he will shake the man to wake him up, if necessary.  "We need to know about your patrol.  Were you looking for us?  If so, why, and how did you find us?  Do others know the patrol came to this spot?  How long until others look for your patrol?  Speak quickly and truthfully and we will let you live.  Lie to me, and I will replace these arrows in your wounds.  Your choice, human.  Choose well."

If the bandit declines to talk, Zyphen will shrug, pick up an arrow that had been removed from the bandit's wounds, and make a show of moving to shove it back into an arrow wound.  If the bandit does not talk, Zyphen will shove the arrow in, taking care not to kill the bandit.  Hopefully it will only take one arrow.  If it is more, someone should probably play "good cop" instead.  I don't know how many arrows it would take to kill him.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 64 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Thu 20 Dec 2007
at 03:34
  • msg #167

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Cuaglar is on the watch as well, looking into the night, but if necessary will help with the interrogation.

((No one expects...  The Human/Planetouched/Elven/Whatever-the-hell-else-we've-got Inquisition!
Yeah, I don't even know what movie that's from.
Kanir
player, 112 posts
Init +12, AC 22/20/12
HP 13/28, Saves +7/+7/+10
Fri 21 Dec 2007
at 04:07
  • msg #168

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

The young mage decides that he has had enough for the day, and decides to lie down.  He is wincing frequently.  The bat is chewing a fruit on his shoulder, and apparently not flying away for the night anymore.  The mage takes a couple of pearls out of his backpack, and focuses on them intensely, causing them to glow softly in white light.  He then cast a spell, and tries to go back to bed...

[Private to DM Fletch: Using two Pearls of Power I, retrieve Vigilant Slumber and Expeditious Retreat.  Cast Vigilant Slumber, with same condition (Someone in the party is attacked) and go to sleep, hoping to get 8 hours of sleep for the beauty sleep...]

-K
DM Fletch
GM, 95 posts
More! You want more?!
Fri 21 Dec 2007
at 12:57
  • msg #169

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Given my access issues - see my OOC post - I'm going to summarise the interrogation so that you're not left hanging.

Atalakis and Cuaglir keep watch while Zyphen interrogates the bandit.  Corven looks on but Kanir seems only to want to get back to sleep.

Zyphen has no trouble getting the bandit to talk, in the circumstances it would be harder not to intimidate the wounded man, but his answers are not what you might expect.

"What patrol?  What are you talking about?  We saw the smoke from the fire you lit to burn the dire wolf and followed you here.  Thought we might pick up some good loot if we could catch you unawares.  Nobody's going to come looking for us, we're just...thieves."  The bandit chooses his words with some care.  He doesn't mention what they were planning to do if they caught you unawares and 'thieves' is the mildest alternative.

Under further questioning, it becomes clear that this group has nothing to do with the Keep.  After all "There's orcs up there."  They were just robbers after a mark.
Zyphen
player, 102 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Sat 22 Dec 2007
at 05:27
  • msg #170

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

Zyphen will see if the man has any additional information about the Keep and the orcs.  He will see to cleaning up the camp, then.  He drags the bodies off to the side, sets back up his twine and bells, sets Snow to watch again, etc.

In the morning, he will speak to the others.  "Were it just me, I would probably kill this man, for he would have done us no better.  However, I would guess that our brightly-colored mark might object to such expediency.  If I am correct, it is of no great matter.  This man is not connected to the Keep, will have little way to follow us and poses no great danger.  Letting him go is not likely to bring harm to us."

Assuming the paladin expresses some wish not to kill the man, Zyphen will remove the manacles and rope and send the man on his way.  "Thank Sune and the garishly-dressed knight for your life.  Do not attempt to follow us.  If I see you again, I will kill you.  Go."
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 65 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Sun 23 Dec 2007
at 19:23
  • msg #171

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

When he saw the prisoner being let loose, he picked up his bow and nocked an arrow meaningfully stretching it out and aiming for the horizon, then unbending the bow again.
Kanir
player, 113 posts
Init +12, AC 22/20/12
HP 13/28, Saves +7/+7/+10
Mon 24 Dec 2007
at 15:06
  • msg #172

Re: Rd 3 Round-up

The young wizard tosses and turns as he tries hard to get some sleep, but sighs and moans of injury makes it hard.  The bat stays awake on top of young man's body, alart and watching for the night.

-K
DM Fletch
GM, 97 posts
More! You want more?!
Fri 28 Dec 2007
at 03:04
  • msg #173

Nightly News

The bandit takes to his heels without any further encouragement and is soon lost to even the best eyes and ears amongst the group.

In returning to your camp it is clear that something will need to be done about the bandit's bodies.  It takes  a little while to drag them away and heap them together, but it would not be wise to leave them lying close by if there are more predators like the dire wolf about.  In doing so you have the opportunity to loot the bodies, if you want.  Most of the bandits have basic equipment and there is little to be gained by taking it, even the arrows are of a shorter cut and useful only for short bows.

The leader's kit is of a better quality by far.  You find his bow where he cast it aside before charging Atalakis and his sword by his mauled corpse (the badger has long since vanished).  The bow is a recurved composite longbow, very heavily strung and the sword a hand-and-a-half sword, very heavy and balanced with its weight favouring the point.

The remainder of the night passes free of incident, although those keeping watch can hear noises as some of the more adventurous local animals investigate the pile of carrion.

A new day is dawning and the Keep awaits.

OOC: As usual those who are injured gain HP equal to your level for the night's rest.  I'll allow Corven to make heal checks (DC 15) to double that if he wants - in effect presuming that he spent some time attending to first aid before you all slept.
Corven
player, 29 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Sun 30 Dec 2007
at 01:02
  • msg #174

Re: Nightly News


Corven will attempt to administer care to his comrades, bandaging their wounds with a salve, and saying a small prayer to Chauntea over them.



Looks like Kanir and Atalakis get helped - was Zyphen even wounded? ^^

18:58, Today: Corven rolled 22 using 1d20+6. Heal check Atal.
18:58, Today: Corven rolled 16 using 1d20+6. Heal check Kanir.
18:57, Today: Corven rolled 8 using 1d20+6. Heal check Zyphen.


Cuaglar Annondur
player, 67 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Sun 30 Dec 2007
at 16:07
  • msg #175

Re: Nightly News

Cuaglar woke early, rising from his trance to pace the campground, rekindle the campfire, and wait for his companions to arise.
Atalakis
player, 36 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 14/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Wed 2 Jan 2008
at 18:35
  • msg #176

Re: Nightly News

Do we use our ECL for determining HP gained or our class level?

Thanks!
Zyphen
player, 106 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Thu 3 Jan 2008
at 01:56
  • msg #177

Re: Nightly News

Your ECL and level should be the same as your level, yes?  I think you bought off your level adjustment at the same time I did.
Atalakis
player, 37 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 14/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Fri 4 Jan 2008
at 06:15
  • msg #178

Re: Nightly News

Good point, 6 HP healed.
DM Fletch
GM, 98 posts
More! You want more?!
Sat 5 Jan 2008
at 09:23
  • msg #179

Re: Nightly News

You break camp and head off towards the Keep.  Zyphen scouts ahead once more, wary of the risk of ambush.  He has hardly gone out of sight, however, before Snow comes back and gives Corven the signal for a cautious approach.  You follow the owl to where Zyphen stands at the edge of a small clearing close to the path.

A Spot check DC 10 or a Survival check DC 5 reveals the remains of a small campfire and a patch of disturbed ground.  If you see it, you know that someone else was camped here last night.
[Private to Zyphen: From what you can see there is only one set of tracks.  That and the other signs left behind suggest a lone traveller.  Interestingly, the tracks don't lead back to the trail.  Instead, they head deeper into the trees and scrub towards the Keep.]
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 69 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Sat 5 Jan 2008
at 16:11
  • msg #180

Re: Nightly News

Cuaglar fails to see what they mean by a campfire, as he can't see any sign of one.  However, he is more than willing to take the word of a ranger that someone camped here last night.

OOC: Got 8 on my Spot check...
Zyphen
player, 107 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Sat 5 Jan 2008
at 17:45
  • msg #181

Re: Nightly News

"One person camped here," Zyphen says softly, pointing to a set of prints.  <purple>"They did not return to the trail, but instead went deeper into the trees, towards the Keep.

I do not whose prints these are, but it might be wise to follow them.  If it is an enemy, I would prefer they not be at my back; and it may be someone with information about the Keep.

Can I tell how long ago the person left, perhaps from the signs of when the fire was put out and camp was broken?  If Zyphen believes the person might still be close, he would want to track them alone and try to catch them without the slow-pokes in the rest of the party, and so he could be stealthy about it.
Zyphen
player, 108 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Wed 9 Jan 2008
at 14:53
  • msg #182

Re: Nightly News

"These tracks are fresh; probably not more than an hour old.  I am going to follow them and see who proceeds us.  Follow me as quickly as you can."

Zyphen will move quickly but quietly after the tracks, looking for the traveler but attempting not to be seen.

Take 10 MS - 20
Take 10 Hide - 20
Take 10 Listen - 17
Take 10 Spot - 17
Tracking - 21

09:49, Today: Zyphen rolled 21 using 1d20+9. Tracking (if can't take 10).
DM Fletch
GM, 100 posts
More! You want more?!
Sat 12 Jan 2008
at 23:26
  • msg #183

A Short Time Later...

Zyphen follows the tracks quickly and surely, although, in all fairness, they are fresh and easy to follow.  Even so, the effort involves a bit of hunting back and forth for signs of the quarry's passing and the rest of the group has no trouble keeping pace.

The tracks lead from the clearing to an animal trail that runs roughly paallel to the main path.  Your progress is now quite steeply uphill and it is not long before you come in sight of a large cliff.  From your current position you can just see a wall section and two towers atop the cliff, which must be a portion of the Keep's defences.

At about the same time you see a slender, brunette woman seated on a log facing away from you.  She has a book open on her lap and an inkwell beside her.  She appears to be writing or sketching.  Further details of her clothes are obscured by the travelling cloak she wears.  A pack rests against the log close by.

Before you can decide on your next action, she abruptly turns her head.  She may have been stretching her neck or perhaps she was alerted by some sixth sense but she's looking squarely at Zyphen. Natural 20 on the Spot check!

Alright, Evesa, you're on!
Evesa
player, 3 posts
Init: +1, AC 16/15/11
HP 18/18, Saves +5/+3/+9
Sun 13 Jan 2008
at 02:54
  • msg #184

Re: A Short Time Later...

The young woman sitting on the log turns and looks the man up and down deciding if he is friend or foe. Deciding that he might be a friend she acknowledges him by saying "Good day to you sir."

As she turns you notice she is not as young as she first seems. She is not pretty yet some might find her face pleasant enough. Under her cloak is a hair shirt and there is a glint of a weapon by her side.
Zyphen
player, 109 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Sun 13 Jan 2008
at 03:16
  • msg #185

Re: A Short Time Later...

Zyphen, realizing that he has been spotted, draws his bow but does not draw or string an arrow.  Whispering a word to Snow in Auren, he sends the white owl flapping back to his companions, to bring them forward.  Then, keeping the bow down at his side, and his other hand empty and in view, he steps out of the shadows and trees.

"Your eyes are keen, lady, for I am normally not easily spotted.  You are in a dangerous area.  I would know your purpose here, so that I might know if you are friend or foe."

As Zyphen waits for her answer, he keeps his hands in view so as not to provoke the woman unnecessarily.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:18, Sun 13 Jan 2008.
Evesa
player, 4 posts
Init: +1, AC 16/15/11
HP 18/18, Saves +5/+3/+9
Sat 19 Jan 2008
at 01:48
  • msg #186

Re: A Short Time Later...

"I could say the same of you, yet that might lead to an unwanted stand-off. So let me begin by saying my name is Evesa. My purpose, well that should be a little obvious. I am interested in the Keep with it's new inhabitants. Held by orcs and with these type of defenses the Keep is too good a puzzle to give up easily." Evesa replies.

As she turns further towards the man he can make out a drawing of the Keep wall and towers that are visible.

[Private to DM Fletch: 09:40, Today: Secret Roll: Evesa rolled 14 using 1d20+3. Listen check of others.
09:40, Today: Secret Roll: Evesa rolled 16 using 1d20+3. Spot check of others.]
Zyphen
player, 110 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Sun 20 Jan 2008
at 10:12
  • msg #187

Re: A Short Time Later...

"And what sort of 'interest' do you have with the keep and its inhabitants, lady?  Are you a friend of the orcs in the keep, or their foe?"
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 72 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Sun 20 Jan 2008
at 16:45
  • msg #188

Re: A Short Time Later...

Cuaglar spotted Zyphen's owl fluttering towards them, and gathered up his things.
"It's safe to move ahead; let's go!" He said, as he began following the path where Zyphen went.
Evesa
player, 5 posts
Init: +1, AC 16/15/11
HP 18/18, Saves +5/+3/+9
Mon 21 Jan 2008
at 01:23
  • msg #189

Re: A Short Time Later...

"My interest is purely academic. I wish to see what is the best way to remove the orcs from the Keep. It is like a puzzle to be solved. So that would probably make them a foe."
Zyphen
player, 111 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Tue 22 Jan 2008
at 06:32
  • msg #190

Re: A Short Time Later...

Zyphen is not the best at reading people, but he has studied human reactions in particular, and believes Evesa is probably telling the truth. "Yes, assuming you do not intend to remove them by leading them out to sack the nearest city, I should say that makes you their foe," he says, as he returns the purple-fletched arrow to his quiver.  "Shaundakul may have blessed your travels this day.  We have been hired to perform the same task, albeit we have thus far planned to accomplish it in a much less than 'academic' manner.  My companions should arrive soon; I am sure the one in pastels will be pleased to speak with you about it."

Zyphen withdraws into the shadow of a tree, watching the lady, and watching for Snow's return with the others.  He will brief the others quickly on what he has learned when they arrive, so that we don't have to go through it all again.

OOC:  Queue group--Zyphen is no face man!
This message was last edited by the player at 06:35, Tue 22 Jan 2008.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 73 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Tue 22 Jan 2008
at 18:17
  • msg #191

Re: A Short Time Later...

Cuaglar came walking a little later, with his pack horse trailing behind him.
"Well, Zyphen?  What did you find?" He asked as he walked between the trees.  "Oh, I see.  A wanderer?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:47, Wed 23 Jan 2008.
Corven
player, 30 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Wed 23 Jan 2008
at 14:58
  • msg #192

Re: A Short Time Later...


Corven will follow Cuaglar, chatting with Tacky about how Zyphen seems a bit paranoid at times, and perhaps he should lighten up and enjoy life a little.  Tacky agrees, of course.
Atalakis
player, 38 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 20/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Thu 24 Jan 2008
at 16:29
  • msg #193

Re: A Short Time Later...

Atalakis reigns his horse forward, deftly guiding it through the woods with the skill of a practiced rider. As he enters the clearing, his lance is tucked in the crook of an arm that holds the reigns to the horse. He raises a gloved hand and runs his fingers through his hair, to give it a stylish toss as he surveys those around him. His eyes note the newcomer and he flashes a dashing smile which literally sparkles. He then turns his gaze to scan his companions.

How fortuitous is this? A pretty maid alone in the forest and our band of champions without a pretty maid to favor our cause. Sune, you work in mysterious ways. He muses as he touches the symbol of Sune which is embroidered on his tunic.

He once again focuses on the lady.

Hail and good evening, fair lady. I am Atalakis, the Pastel Paladin of Sune. Tis a pleasure to meet you.

These woods are cold and full of treacherous dangers, and it seems we have a common foe. We have a long list of wrongs to right and people to aid--if we were to band together, we could certainly accomplish this task more quickly. What say you?

While he speaks with her, Atalakis will use his detect evil ability to make certain she is not a foe.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:41, Thu 24 Jan 2008.
Evesa
player, 6 posts
Init: +1, AC 16/15/11
HP 18/18, Saves +5/+3/+9
Fri 25 Jan 2008
at 00:57
  • msg #194

Re: A Short Time Later...

Evesa watches the group approach. She smiles at them in turn laughing to herself at the Paladin's fine flowing speech. With laughter in her voice she speaks to Atalakis "Hail to you all and thank you for your kind words Atalakis. My name is Evesa. Your friend here has told me that you are hired to remove the orcs from the Keep. Maybe we could combine our knowledge and skills to perform this challenging task."
Zyphen
player, 112 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Mon 28 Jan 2008
at 17:02
  • msg #195

Re: A Short Time Later...

Zyphen seems indifferent at the idea of joining forces, but impatient to be off.  "Come, we are wasting daylight, and orcs are creatures of the night.  I would rather advance on the keep while we all can see, rather than just a few of us.

It seems you are both in agreement on banding together.  If you want to talk about it more, do so as you walk."

Zyphen will slip off into the brush, scouting ahead per his normal patterns, leaving marks for the group to follow as necessary.  As we approach the keep, Zyphen will keep the group under cover--trees, bushes, etc. so that people cannot see us approaching from the windows of the keep.  When we get to the point where we run out of cover, I would like to stop the group and consider our options of approach.  Zyphen will of course keep an eye out for any orc guards or scouts.
DM Fletch
GM, 103 posts
More! You want more?!
Mon 4 Feb 2008
at 12:29
  • msg #196

The Causeway Road

Led by Zyphen you move quickly back around towards the main path.  He is careful to make sure that everyone sticks to the trees and makes no unnecessary noise.  It seems his efforts were unnecessary.  At least you see no sign of any orcs scouts or sentries.

From your new position you can see the main path as it climbs towards the keep.  You might expect the road to wind back and forth in a number of switchbacks as it rises towards the gates.  This is different.  It appears that a natural spur jutting out from the hillside has been modified to create a long, straight, but very narrow ramp.

The alternative to the ramp, from your current position at least, would be to move further around the Keep and try to find a good point to scale the cliffs below its walls.

Time to make a decision.
Zyphen
player, 113 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Mon 4 Feb 2008
at 14:52
  • msg #197

Re: The Causeway Road

Do we see any scouts?  Is there any cover approaching the cliff from the back?  Can Zyphen circle around and see what would be back there?  If we climb up the back is there a way in?

Zyphen's tentative plan would be to use the rear entry.  I would levitate up the cliff and drop a rope.  Preferably I would levitate to an actual entry point of the keep, like the roof (if there is likely to be a way in from the roof--are there scouts up there?) or a window.  If not, then the bottom of the cliff would work, especially if there is a back door.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 74 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Mon 4 Feb 2008
at 16:56
  • msg #198

Re: The Causeway Road

"An addition to that plan may be to create a distraction." Cuaglar would note.  "Perhaps a large campfire, built on or near the causeway, would attract enough of the sentries' attention that we will have a greater chance of climbing up the back way and remain unseen."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:15, Tue 05 Feb 2008.
Evesa
player, 8 posts
Init: +1, AC 16/15/11
HP 18/18, Saves +5/+3/+9
Tue 5 Feb 2008
at 11:24
  • msg #199

Re: The Causeway Road

"Not a bad thought yet it would leave one or two people in the firing range when they light the fire. Also it would alert the orcs that someone was around and interested in the keep. I would like to get a better look around all entry points before making a decision." Evesa comments.
Zyphen
player, 115 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Wed 6 Feb 2008
at 15:14
  • msg #200

Re: The Causeway Road

Zyphen has climbed a nearby hill or tree to get a better vantage point, staring off at the keep.  At Evesa's words, he speaks without glancing down, his soft voice carrying mysteriously well over the wind.  "A better look?  That implies you have had a look at all.  What do you know of the keep then, lady?  I plan to scout it, but I would have as much information as I can, first.  Have you seen scouts?  Is there cover approaching the back cliff?  Is there a way in from the back--a door, window, or evidence of a hatch on the roof (such as guards there)?

My preference would be to approach the back cliff from cover, and ascend and secure a rope to an entry point.  I would wager the front doors are most heavily watched.  What say you?"
Evesa
player, 9 posts
Init: +1, AC 16/15/11
HP 18/18, Saves +5/+3/+9
Tue 12 Feb 2008
at 08:13
  • msg #201

Re: The Causeway Road

"Well firstly the back of the keep in against the cliff. You would need to go around a ways to get above the keep and come back. This would leave you exposed and easily noticeable. I have not been up that way.

Secondly I have only seen sentries posted in pairs in the towers. It does not seen to be very strict either as the orcs seem to love to fight each other. No scouts  or anyone else for that matter. I have not been close enough to see doors or windows that might be useful."
Zyphen
player, 116 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Tue 12 Feb 2008
at 15:48
  • msg #202

Re: The Causeway Road

Zyphen will nod, then with that information go to scout himself.  Keeping to cover or shadows, he will scout the keep for possible points of entry, such as windows.  He will watch guard patrols and try to note defenses.  He will spend a period of time watching each reasonable point of entry (including the front door) to see how the orcs guard it.  If tracking would be helpful, he will do that as well.  He will also be mindful of the fact that if we want to attack today, we want to do so before evening.  (I am not sure what time of day it is.)

Basically, he is looking for anything that would make this something other than Atalakis' favored "charge the door, kill all the orcs!"  Any information he could gather about other subtleties he would find helpful.

10:47, Today: Zyphen rolled 14 using 1d20+9. Tracking.
10:45, Today: Zyphen rolled 24 using 1d20+10. Hide.
10:44, Today: Zyphen rolled 11 using 1d20+10. MS.  Note:  Please add +5 to this if it seem to Zyphen someone might hear him; he will use his Walk in Silence ability ((Su) (3rd Ranger (Shadow Sword)): 1/day, swift action: +5 circumstance to Move Silently).
10:44, Today: Zyphen rolled 22 using 1d20+7. Listen.
10:44, Today: Zyphen rolled 26 using 1d20+7. Spot (-1 if bright light).
This message was last edited by the player at 15:50, Tue 12 Feb 2008.
Atalakis
player, 39 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 20/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Thu 14 Feb 2008
at 01:52
  • msg #203

Re: The Causeway Road

Before Zyphen leaves, Atalakis will survey the situation.

I cannot see a good way to climb up the back wearing my armor. I don't know if Sune, nor my tailors, would ever forgive me if I fought another battle without armor. He says, once again fingering the slash marks on his tabard, which we surrounded by red stains.

He sighs, Not to mention my trusty steed lacks climbing ability... and the bards rarely sing of the brave knight who gallantly snuck in the back window to subdue his foes. Nay, that is a tale of a different sort.

I can't help but see the evidence mounting against such an approach. However, I am open to suggestions. So see what you can find and we can decide from there.

DM Fletch
GM, 107 posts
More! You want more?!
Mon 18 Feb 2008
at 12:29
  • msg #204

Re: The Causeway Road

Zyphen's scouting reveals some details, but the forward defences of the Keep are fairly obvious and the others can see almost as much from where they are.

The Keep is built on a shelf in the hillside.  The cliffs in front of you curve away in a shallow arc to either side until they meet the sheer hillside beyond.  The cliffs are topped with the Keep's stone wall and three towers, which stand upon the edge of the cliff, but behind those can be seen the rest of the hill.  The cliffs behind seem almost as abrupt as those in front.  The wall is in poor condition.  You can see gaps where sections have partially collapsed.  Some of them are marked by small piles of fallen masonry at the foot of the cliff.

The road rises towards the central tower and a reinforced door can be seen where the road enters the Keep.  The towers to either side have only arrow-slit windows and crude crennelated battlements.

There is little sign of any sentries but every so often a head can be seen moving above at the battlements.  So far, they seem confined to the towers.

OOC: Sorry, I've been planning to put a map together for ages but my crude version of Dungeoncrafter really isn't up to it.  I'll go ask for some pointers in the DM's Lounge and with any luck I'll be able to show you what I'm trying to describe.
Zyphen
player, 121 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Mon 3 Mar 2008
at 06:18
  • msg #205

Re: The Causeway Road

Zyphen returns from his scouting, and discusses the matter with the others, Evesa in particular who has scouted the gate earlier.

"I hate to admit it, but the paladin's plan, however impudent, might be the best.  We could attempt to scale the walls.  We have no skilled climber, but I could levitate to the top of a wall and throw down a rope.  I am not certain if I would successfully make it to the top without being spotted.  I might end up having to hold the wall while you all climb.  Dramatic, but I am no knight in armor.

Besides, the entire point of such an exercise would be to catch them at unawares.  It seems, however, they they are unawares anyway.  If we went quietly through the front gate, we would probably be just about as unlikely to alert the entire keep of orcs as if we went up the walls.

I would propose that we move quietly towards the gate, keeping cover as much as we can.  The paladin will have to tie and leave his horse--there will be little chance to use it in the keep anyway, it would be safer in the forest.  I will attempt to take out any sentries with arrows from a distance, if I can.

Evesa, I understand you examined the gate earlier, and it was not locked or barred, and the porticalus was up, perhaps stuck.  When you examined it earlier, you did so with Silence and Darkness.  Darkness would stick out in the day, but Silence might be useful.  The pastel fool is anything but quiet.  If you think it a worthy expenditure of resources, you could consider placing Silence on a stone and carrying it with you.  If a sentry appears likely to call out, you could try to pitch the stone near him.  I will, of course, attempt to make sure they have no time to scream."

Zyphen's tone is cold and emotionless.  He does not seem scared or excited--killing a keep of orcs is just another job to him.  In that vein, he would also take no offense at changes or suggestions for the plan.  It's just business.

OOC:  Fletch, Zyphen would like to see if there are any points where he can get clean shots at the few sentries from outside of the walls--the sentries near the front gate, and any that patrol.  Also, is there anything special I would need to do to kill them before they could call out?  One shot kills or something?  If they do call out, what are the likely results?

Also, is Zyphen correct that Atalakis is unlikely to be able to use his Horse in the keep?

Finally, is Zyphen's underlying premise sound, that if we rushed the gates in relative silence (no screaming cavelry charges), we would be just about as unlikely to alert the entire keep of our presence as if we climbed a wall and started killing things there?

Thanks!
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 80 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Mon 3 Mar 2008
at 18:35
  • msg #206

Re: The Causeway Road

"I'm not such a bad archer myself," Cuaglar reminded Zyphen.  "I'll help with the support fire."
DM Fletch
GM, 111 posts
More! You want more?!
Tue 4 Mar 2008
at 12:05
  • msg #207

Re: The Causeway Road

OOC: You can get a good shot at anybody standing up to the battlements, which should be all you need because there the one's that will spot anyone approaching.

You'll have difficulty covering all three towers, but while the other two towers can see at least the lower part of the approach they're less likely to notice anything because of the distance.

To keep them from calling out would be either a one-shot kill, which would be feasible with a basic orc; or a called shot, -4 to hit on top of some already severe modifiers for distance and cover.

There's no way for you to know what the results would be if they call out.  Also there's no way to be sure what the conditions like for a horse inside the Keep.  On the other hand it would be hard to get a horse past the barricade Evesa described.

There's no way to be certain whether you're premise is correct, but it's a pretty safe assumption given the information you have, particularly the fact that none of you are strong climbers. :)

And yes I know all this should go in OOC.
Zyphen
player, 122 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Tue 4 Mar 2008
at 15:10
  • msg #208

Re: The Causeway Road

Zyphen considers the elf, then nods.  "A fair plan.  We will time our shots to fire at the same guard simultaneously.  Come, Cuaglar, let us find a good vantage point."

Zyphen will find a good vantage point for Cuaglar and himself, one that minimizes the range penalties, cover bonuses, and concealment bonuses of the enemy guard.  Zyphen will then wait until any last prep for the plan is complete, and time he and Cuaglar's shots so they are simultaneous.

Tossing out a roll for you.

10:10, Today: Zyphen rolled 9 using 1d8+4.
10:10, Today: Zyphen rolled 17 using 1d20+8. Shot at guard (sim w. Cuag's shot).

My range increment is 130'.  So he is at base range if he is 1-129' away; -2 penalty if he is 130-259; etc.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:12, Tue 04 Mar 2008.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 81 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Tue 4 Mar 2008
at 20:08
  • msg #209

Re: The Causeway Road

Cuaglar followed Zyphen, crouching along and nocking an arrow to the string of his bow.  When he had followed Zyphen, he aimed along his arrow, and let it fly at a dark shape on the parapet.

OOC: Synchronizing shot with Zyphen's,
14:04, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 19 using 1d20+7. Attack roll, applied a -2 modifier because his bow's range isn't as long as Zyphen's (100 feet) but he's probably shooting from the same place.
14:08, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 6 using 1d8. Damage.
DM Fletch
GM, 113 posts
More! You want more?!
Sat 8 Mar 2008
at 01:31
  • msg #210

Re: The Causeway Road

Cuaglar and Zyphen wait until an orc sentry approaches the battlements.  He gazes dispiritedly out across the forest shading his eyes against the glare.  Then it appears that he rummages around with his clothing for a moment and a small stream of liquid trails out over the edge of the wall.  He's taking a leak.

Not ones to pass up such a golden opportunity, Zyphan and Cuaglar shoot in unison.  Both arrows hit, or appear to.  The orc staggers back a step and for a heart-stopping moment it appears he will fall backwards.  The arrows in his chest will surely alert any others who are with him.  Then the orc flails, over-corrects his balance and pitches forward off the wall.

Amazingly, the orc lands feet first, but it is apparent from the way he crumples that he is already dead.

Another sentry appears at the battlements.  He must have seen the other orc fall, but must surely be ignorant of the reason for he leans far out to look for his fallen colleague.  He can be heard calling out in the crude Orcish tongue.

A perfect opportunity?
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 83 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Sat 8 Mar 2008
at 21:49
  • msg #211

Re: The Causeway Road

One less orc now would be one less orc later, whenever later came.  Cuaglar bent his bow again and sent a shaft whistling through the air.

OOC: 15:47, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 13 using 1d20+7. Attack Roll.
15:48, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 3 using 1d8. Damage.
Zyphen
player, 124 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Sun 9 Mar 2008
at 18:39
  • msg #212

Re: The Causeway Road

Zyphen smoothly knocks and draws again, then nods slightly at Cuaglar as both fire their arrows at the next orc.

14:38, Today: Zyphen rolled 9 using 1d8+4. arrow damage.
14:38, Today: Zyphen rolled 16 using 1d20+8. Shot second guard.
DM Fletch
GM, 115 posts
More! You want more?!
Fri 21 Mar 2008
at 06:37
  • msg #213

Re: The Causeway Road

Cuaglar's second shot clatters off the stone battlements of the tower wall.  Zyphen's is slightly better but the arrowhead is turned at the last second by the orc's filthy armour.  The orc may not be terribly bright but it knows that it is being attacked.  It turns away from the battlements and quickly passes out of sight.

Down below, Evesa holds those waiting at the foot of the ramp from charging when the second orc survives.  "Wait!  All it knows now is that there are archers in the woods.  It doesn't know we're about to attack the gate."

She waits only just long enough for the orc to be out of sight.  "Come on!  Now's our chance!"
Zyphen
player, 125 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Fri 21 Mar 2008
at 13:18
  • msg #214

Re: The Causeway Road

Zyphen will follow Evesa.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 84 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Sat 22 Mar 2008
at 03:45
  • msg #215

Re: The Causeway Road

Cuaglar ran swiftly alongside Zyphen, though perhaps not as quick as the light-footed genasi, he could certainly run longer.

OOC: Maybe Endurance will come in handy, for a change.  Why the heck I picked that feat is beyond me.
Atalakis
player, 40 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 20/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Sun 23 Mar 2008
at 02:49
  • msg #216

Re: The Causeway Road

Atalakis spurs his horse to follow the group, keeping a wary eye out for enemies.
Corven
player, 33 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Sun 23 Mar 2008
at 20:11
  • msg #217

Re: The Causeway Road

Corven will bid Tacky the Wonderhorse to remain behind at camp.  "Watch our backs, Tacky," he whispers to the large equine, before taking his place near to Evesa.  "Just let us know when we are to attack!"
DM Fletch
GM, 117 posts
More! You want more?!
Thu 27 Mar 2008
at 11:36
  • msg #218

Re: The Causeway Road

Your attack on the Keep begins on Evesa's signal.  Evesa and Atalakis set off up the ramp; Corven a step behind, having missed the signal while he left instructions with Tacky.  Zyphen and Cuaglar have further to come but Zyphen quickly catches up.  Cuaglar is still a bringing up the rear when everyone reaches the top of the ramp, but he's the only one not breathing heavily from the dash up the steep slope (well, apart from Atalakis, who's riding).

You find that Evesa's earlier information was correct.  The remnants of a wooden gate hang from rusted hinges and the points of a portcullis can be seen in a gap in the ceiling, but the only obstacle is a makeshift barricade that appears undefended.  Behind it you can see a passageway running through the tower.  It emerges into the open some 40ft further in.

OOC: Spot checks everyone please.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 85 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Thu 27 Mar 2008
at 18:48
  • msg #219

Re: The Causeway Road

Cuaglar looked around briefly, an arrow to the string of his blue bow, and said,
"We shouldn't linger.  Let's find somewhere we can defend, if things go ill, like one of the towers."

OOC: 19:23, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 5 using 1d20+2. Spot Check
This message was last edited by the player at 00:24, Fri 28 Mar 2008.
Corven
player, 34 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Thu 27 Mar 2008
at 22:18
  • msg #220

Re: The Causeway Road


Corven hurries after the group, a bit out of breath.  He keeps his eyes peeled for danger as the group begins to enter the wooden gate.


15:16, Today: Corven rolled 17 using 1d20+7. Corven Spot Check!.

Evesa
player, 11 posts
Init: +1, AC 16/15/11
HP 18/18, Saves +5/+3/+9
Tue 1 Apr 2008
at 09:07
  • msg #221

Re: The Causeway Road

Evesa rushes up the slope and looks about. She wishes that she had spent a bit more time on her fitness and less time on her books.

OCC: 17:05, Today: Evesa rolled 21 using 1d20+3. Spot check.
Zyphen
player, 128 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Tue 1 Apr 2008
at 13:45
  • msg #222

Re: The Causeway Road

Zyphens night-eyes do not fair quite as well in the sunlight.  He shields his eyes and tries to keep a watch about him.

As always, take 10 if I can.  If not, roll is a 12.  -1 more if this is considered bright light.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:24, Wed 02 Apr 2008.
DM Fletch
GM, 118 posts
More! You want more?!
Wed 2 Apr 2008
at 02:56
  • msg #223

Re: The Causeway Road

I take it you are following Cuaglar's suggestion to find a better defensive position?

[Private to Corven: As you hustle up the ramp you notice that the orcs in the tower to your left have spotted you.]
[Private to Evesa: As you hustle up the ramp you notice that the orcs in the tower to your left have spotted you.]
Zyphen
player, 129 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Wed 2 Apr 2008
at 04:25
  • msg #224

Re: The Causeway Road

Zyphen is always in favor of having a defensible position.
Evesa
player, 12 posts
Init: +1, AC 16/15/11
HP 18/18, Saves +5/+3/+9
Wed 2 Apr 2008
at 09:16
  • msg #225

Re: The Causeway Road

"We need to find a better place than in the open. We managed to take out the right tower, but we have been spotted in the left tower." Evesa calls to the others. Then she starts looking for a better area to start the assault.
Corven
player, 35 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Sat 5 Apr 2008
at 15:42
  • msg #226

Re: The Causeway Road


Corven nods, "I agree with Evesa - I saw a few of the orcs in the other towers pointing at us.  They are sure to attack any minute!"
DM Fletch
GM, 119 posts
More! You want more?!
Sun 6 Apr 2008
at 08:59
  • msg #227

Re: The Causeway Road

From your current position there is only one way to go, other than back.  You scramble over the barricade and push ahead through the tunnel.  Atalakis, you'll need to decide what you're doing with your horse.  You notice arrow slits to either side and murder holes in the roof above you, but fortunately the defences don't seem to be manned at the moment.

At the other end of the tunnel you emerge back into the sunshine.  Ahead of you across the courtyard you can see two larger buildings that form part of the back wall of the Keep.  In the middle of the courtyard is a covered well.

To your left the courtyard is roofed over with a wooden platform about 25 foot wide by 30 foot long.  Beneath are wooden posts and rails scattered amongst the supporting timbers.  There is a ladder leading up to the top of the platform on the far side (further to your left).

To your right a door in the back side of the tower stands slightly ajar.

OOC: Listen checks please
Evesa
player, 13 posts
Init: +1, AC 16/15/11
HP 18/18, Saves +5/+3/+9
Mon 7 Apr 2008
at 13:04
  • msg #228

Re: The Causeway Road

Working her way forward Evesa moves quickly through the tunnel to prevent unwanted attacks from the sides and above. Feeling a little better at the lack of orc numbers, she blinks somewhat in the sunshine at the courtyard.

After a look at the surroundings it seems there are two avenues to follow, either head into the tower and take out the sentries or start moving through the larger buildings. Unsure of the others abilities she asks "What do you think should be the first move. The tower or the larger buildings?"

OCC: 21:56, Today: Evesa rolled 8 using 1d20+3. Listen check.
Zyphen
player, 130 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Mon 7 Apr 2008
at 14:52
  • msg #229

Re: The Causeway Road

Listen Check:  23 (I used the wrong mod on the role; fixed here)
Spot check:  19 (18 if bright light)
Tracking:  17

Zyphen shields his eyes from the sunlight, listening to the sounds of the keep.  "If they believe archers are firing on them from the woods, they may send troops to the woods.  I think we should be out of the way of the possible rush of troops," he says softly.

Zyphen will examine the area for prints, to see if he can learn anything about the normal movements of the orcs.  He will take a quick peek in the well, too.

OOC:  Just to back up a second--our goal is to kill all the orcs, right?  "Clean them out", and unless they will leave voluntarily that means killing them.  If so, I would suggest we find a place where we can start killing them a few at a time, rather than meeting a bunch head on.  I am not sure where that would be.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 87 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Mon 7 Apr 2008
at 15:37
  • msg #230

Re: The Causeway Road

Cuaglar immediately headed toward the overhanging platform to the right, and cried,
"Over there!  We will have some cover from missiles from the wall, should any come!"

23:12, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 16 using 1d20+2. Listen Check.
Corven
player, 36 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Wed 9 Apr 2008
at 13:28
  • msg #231

Re: The Causeway Road


Corven waits for the others to make a decision, keeping an eye (and an ear!) on the surroundings.


OOC:
07:28, Today: Corven rolled 21 using 1d20+5. Listen check.

DM Fletch
GM, 121 posts
More! You want more?!
Sun 13 Apr 2008
at 04:15
  • msg #232

Re: The Causeway Road

PM
[Private to Corven: You can hear noises from the tower above and behind you.  Nothing terrible specific but the occasional clang of metal on stone carries clearly.]
[Private to Zyphen: You can hear noises from the tower above and behind you.  Nothing terrible specific but the occasional clang of metal on stone carries clearly.  There are comparatively few tracks around the tunnel, which fits with Evesa's observations about the lack of patrols.  There are more tracks around the door to your right, most leading out across the courtyard to the buildings at the back.]
Corven
player, 37 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Mon 14 Apr 2008
at 13:17
  • msg #233

Re: The Causeway Road


Corven whispers to the group, "I think I can hear movement in the tower - they are probably coming down for us, we should make haste and leave this area."
Zyphen
player, 131 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Mon 14 Apr 2008
at 13:34
  • msg #234

Re: The Causeway Road

"I hear the tower noises.  I would suggest we move into the other buildings."

Zyphen will move away from the tower, towards the other buildings, moving quickly to get under cover.  I am not 100% sure if that's the same direction as Cuaglar.  I am having a case of the Mondays and am not visualizing the courtyard clearly enough.
Evesa
player, 15 posts
Init: +1, AC 16/15/11
HP 18/18, Saves +5/+3/+9
Wed 16 Apr 2008
at 04:28
  • msg #236

Re: The Causeway Road

Happy to be doing something Evesa moves to under the overhang to wait the others ideas. It seems that the fight will come to them rather than we need to go looking. "We should stay together. I would suggest setting ourselves up so that we can get a volley of arrows as the orcs come out the tower door. Then head up and clean up whoever is left."
Zyphen
player, 132 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Wed 16 Apr 2008
at 14:24
  • msg #237

Re: The Causeway Road

Zyphen will try to find a good place to get a clear shot at the door, hopefully from cover or out of melee range.  If the roof of the overhang would work he will go up there and lay low with his bow.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 88 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Wed 16 Apr 2008
at 16:08
  • msg #238

Re: The Causeway Road

Cuaglar stays underneath the overhang, if it gives him a clear shot of the door of the tower they hear noises from.
Atalakis
player, 42 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 20/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Wed 16 Apr 2008
at 20:51
  • msg #239

Re: The Causeway Road

Atalakis rides along with the group. Yes, a defensible position would be prudent. I can see it now. The battle of the dark tower. The heroes, after fighting long and hard, were backed into the corner with nary a path to turn which was not blocked by the orcs and their ogre warlords. Then, brave Atalakis, Pastel Paladin of Sune, charges forth to meet them head on while his allies pepper the horde with arrows...

His lips curl into a smile as one can only guess he is playing the epic scene out in his mind's eye. Then, suddenly, he jerks to awareness as he catches of something. He quickly pulls a pink 'kerchief out from a saddlebag and wipes a smudge which dulled the mirror-like shine of his burnished armor.

Moments later, he catches a glimpse of himself in the mirror like surface, running his fingers through his hair. Yes let's get into position.

Atalakis will gauge where they are in relation to the tower. He would not want to give up the opportunity to charge. However, if he is certain he would get a chance to fire his bow and then still be able to get off a mounted charge, he would wait to use his bow. If not, he will ready his lance.
DM Fletch
GM, 122 posts
More! You want more?!
Sat 19 Apr 2008
at 03:18
  • msg #240

Re: The Causeway Road

Cuaglar is the first to move, taking shelter beneath the raised platform so that he is screened from the battlements and towers.  Evesa also favours this approach, hoping to catch any orcs that emerge into the courtyard with a volley of arrows.  She joins Cuaglar, as does Corven.

Atalakis' heroic, and photogenic, dreams of fighting hordes of orcs from horseback are dented by the unpleasant reality that it will take about twenty minutes to disassemble enough of the barricade blocking the tunnel so that his horse can enter the courtyard.

Zyphen would prefer to move to the buildings across the courtyard, but it quickly becomes clear that the others aren't following.  Worse, the sounds of footsteps on the tower stairs makes it clear he won't have time to reach the buildings before the orcs appear.  Instead he darts back, hoping to use the higher position atop the platform to his advantage.

Zyphen has just made it under cover when a brutish form opens the door.  It gets about two steps into the courtyard before it spots you.  You have a brief moment to react before it can dive back into the cover of the tower.

OOC:standard actions only.  That means that those with a bow ready can shoot.  Apologies for the crude map, but I hope it's better than nothing.  Each _ is 5 ft, including the space to each side, so _ _ _ is 15 ft not 25.  Your starting positions are approximate only, please feel free to adjust them.

      ^          _
     buildings  |_| <- well

                              Z = Zyphen
                              A = Atalakis?
 <- to left tower             C = Cuaglar
                              O = Corven
     overhang/platform        E = Evesa
 _ _ _v_ _                    B = Barricade

ZH = Horse
AL = Ladder
C Odoor to central tower
E_ _   \v_
L         |   |   | |   |             to right tower ->
|_ _ _ _ _|_ _|   | |   |_ _ _ _ _ _ _
 _ _ _ _ _ _ _    |B|    _ _ _ _ _ _ _
              |_ _|H|_ _|
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 89 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Sat 19 Apr 2008
at 03:41
  • msg #241

Re: The Causeway Road

Cuaglar quickly bent his bow and loosed a shaft at the creature, whatever it was.
"Stop it!" He cried.

OOC: 22:38, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 29 using 1d20+9. Attack roll (bow).
22:38, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 17 using 1d20+9. Critical confirm.
22:40, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 14 using 3d8. Damage if it's a Critical Hit.
22:40, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 5 using 1d8. Damage if it wasn't.
I really. really hope that thing was flatfooted!  This'll be my second critical hit in this group, then!
Atalakis
player, 43 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 20/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Sat 19 Apr 2008
at 14:02
  • msg #242

Re: The Causeway Road

Yes, Atalakis would go with the group and draw his bow if he would not be able to fight from horseback.

Almost uncharacteristic for the paladin, he raises his bow and fires off an arrow at the orc.

10:01, Today: Atalakis rolled 8 using 1d8+3. Damage - Bow.
10:00, Today: Atalakis rolled 20 using 1d20+3. Attack - Bow.
Corven
player, 38 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Mon 21 Apr 2008
at 13:41
  • msg #243

Re: The Causeway Road


As the majority of the group suddenly fires their bows at the mysterious incoming figure, Corven instead crouches down (to give more firing room to everyone else) while keeping an eye out for any other mysterious figures (who could then be pumped full of arrows).
Zyphen
player, 133 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Mon 21 Apr 2008
at 15:12
  • msg #244

Re: The Causeway Road

Do I hear more orcs coming, or just this one?  I don't want to slow things up, so I am going to post actions.  You are welcome to pick for me if you want!

Seeing that the others wish to make a stand in the courtyard, Zyphen moves quickly to a defensible position.  As the orc appears at the door, he...

1.  If I only hear one orc, Zyphen will shoot it.  27 attack, 6 damage.

Or...

2.  If Zyphen hears more orcs coming (dramatic battle in the courtyard!), Zyphen will try to climb up onto the overhang so that he is in a defensible position.  If there is no way up, I would burn my Levitate for the day and float up to get into a good position.  19 Climb check.  Levitate (Caster lvl 5): Standard action, 20' upward/downward move with a move action, lasts 5 minutes.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:18, Mon 21 Apr 2008.
Evesa
player, 16 posts
Init: +1, AC 16/15/11
HP 18/18, Saves +5/+3/+9
Thu 24 Apr 2008
at 10:04
  • msg #245

Re: The Causeway Road

Hurrying through the courtyard to get under the platform Evesa notices the others pull out there weapons. Damn she thinks In all the excitement I have pull out my sword rather than my crossbow. I'll need to get better at the actual fighting to finish this task I have set myself. Moving around to get her crossbow Evesa misses the chance to fire in first volley of arrows.
DM Fletch
GM, 123 posts
More! You want more?!
Sun 27 Apr 2008
at 02:29
  • msg #246

Re: The Causeway Road

Three arrows fly.  All hit, but it is Cuaglar's shot that punches into, even through, the orc's chest and it falls stone dead.  Unfortunately, the orc's death does not go unremarked.  From above you hear hoarse cursing.  Those of you who understand Orc hear "&*%^%$!  They're in the courtyard!  Form up you %$^&&!.  The platform screens the top of the tower, and the speaker, from view.

OOC: edited for PG rating ;)
DM Fletch
GM, 124 posts
More! You want more?!
Fri 2 May 2008
at 14:38
  • msg #247

Re: The Causeway Road

Well, the orc's dead.  Judging by the noises now coming from the tower beside you, you have maybe 30 seconds to a minute to act before the tower's occupants get organised.  What are you going to do?
Zyphen
player, 134 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Fri 2 May 2008
at 15:42
  • msg #248

Re: The Causeway Road

OOC:  DM Fletch, maybe it is just me, but I am having a hard time visualizing our options.  Zyphen's inclination would be to either evade the orcs (unlikely with a paladin in plate mail) or find a definsible position to hole up, where Zyphen and maybe Cuaglar can perch with bows and snipe at people without there being many clear avenues for the orcs to shoot back.  I am not sure where that would be.  There is a roof thing in the court yard, but I am having a hard time visualizing if that is a defensible position.

That's not your fault, mind you.  This is always where I personally get stuck on message boards; when one hits a relatively complex 3D landscape with no 3D models to show the players what it looks like (we used to use stacks of books for buildings, figurines for people, etc.), and no way to just chat back and forth until you understand it.

I would personally find it helpful in this instance if you provided us with a few of the obvious things we could do, but I know some DMs don't like to do that.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:42, Fri 02 May 2008.
DM Fletch
GM, 125 posts
More! You want more?!
Sat 3 May 2008
at 02:29
  • msg #249

Re: The Causeway Road

OOC: Fair enough.  It is pretty hard to map/visualise a large area with varying height levels.  In crude terms your options for a defensible position are:

1. Stay where you are.  The platform shields you from attack from the battlements and towers but you are fairly exposed at ground level.

2.  Go up onto the platform.  You don't know much about what's up there but you do know that there's no railing/wall.  It would be a strong position against an attack from the courtyard but it abuts the wall so you could be attacked along the wall and you'd be exposed to missile fire from the towers.

3.  Attack.  Clearing out the garrison in any one of the towers or buildings would give you a position of real strength.  Close the doors and they would have to counterattack a fortified position.  You would also risk getting stuck inside :)


Cuaglar Annondur
player, 90 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Sat 3 May 2008
at 23:47
  • msg #250

Re: The Causeway Road

OOC: I use dominoes.  :)  Never got one of those vinyl wipe-off sheety things.  But towers are hard to do with 'em.
I would vote going to one of the towers on the wall.  But, in the future, we should really denote a leader, at least temporarily.  When we're not in combat, we shouldn't have someone telling us what to do.  But we don't have time for democracy  when we're in the middle of a siege.
Zyphen
player, 135 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Mon 5 May 2008
at 12:23
  • msg #251

Re: The Causeway Road

Zyphen would also favor attacking, since this is not particularly defensible.

If we duck our heads out from under the platform shielding us from attacks from the battlements, are there any targets of opportunity?  If so, Zyphen would want to stay and take a few shots, perhaps with Cuaglar, while Atalakis led a charge into the garrison.  If there are no targets of opportunity, Zyphen would just follow immediately.

Thanks, Fletch!  That's exactly what I needed.

Cuaglar:  I am fine with someone being leader if people would like to do that.  I think one issue that sometimes creates on message boards is that only the leader really talks in battle, but I suppose that's not a huge deal.
Corven
player, 39 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Tue 6 May 2008
at 13:28
  • msg #252

Re: The Causeway Road



OOC: Corven would be willing to charge the towers with Atalakis.  Sounds exciting!

Evesa
player, 17 posts
Init: +1, AC 16/15/11
HP 18/18, Saves +5/+3/+9
Wed 7 May 2008
at 08:50
  • msg #253

Re: The Causeway Road

I'm not sure we have set ourselves up well. thinks Evesa to herself. Maybe we should try a surprise move like attacking the orcs directly. Whatever we do we need to decide sooner rather than later.

"I don't like the position we are in. Either we are exposed to anyone above or to anyone in the courtyard. I think it is too late to find a better position, so maybe our option is to charge the orcs as they come out of the tower." suggests Evesa, as everyone would have heard the orc's shout. Looking around she returns her crossbow and pulls out her longsword ready for an attack.
Atalakis
player, 44 posts
Init: +0 AC: 18/18/10
HP: 20/30 Saves: +9/+5/+7
Fri 9 May 2008
at 18:12
  • msg #254

Re: The Causeway Road

Atalakis surveys the situation with a thoughtful, almost distant look about him. You might suspect he is envisioning an epic battle.

He then shakes his head slightly looking at the group, a serious look about him. I say our best option is to take the fight to them. He raises his lance/greatsword ( Which depends on whether he can attack from his mount or not. Can he ride his mount to charge or is there not enough room?).

I will take the lead. We will rush the nearest tower.

He begins to reign his horse in (if possible) in the direction of a nearby tower. Waiting for an adequate opening and for the others to ready themselves.
DM Fletch
GM, 127 posts
More! You want more?!
Sat 10 May 2008
at 14:31
  • msg #255

Re: The Causeway Road

The decision is made to attack the nearest tower.  Atalakis volunteers to lead the charge.  Which begs the question: direct assault or stealth and caution?  It will be difficult to catch the orcs in the tower unawares but it might still be possible.

OOC: If I don't hear people clamouring to go scouting then I'm going to assume a direct attack is in order, so that we can get on with the next good bit :)
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 91 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Sun 11 May 2008
at 21:25
  • msg #256

Re: The Causeway Road

OOC: I'm going to assume that, as the alarm has been risen (given?) that speed is going to be more useful than stealth, in this situation.

Cuaglar sung out a phrase in elven as he ran out toward the door of the tower,
"Elain amara telos!
Alavar huinen delos!"

"Blades shine in the moon!
Arrows sing in the sun!"
Zyphen
player, 136 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Mon 12 May 2008
at 15:11
  • msg #257

Re: The Causeway Road

Zyphen shrugs as the paladin prepares to charge.  "It is not how I would assault a keep of orcs left to my own devices, but we aren't sneaking up on anyone with him around, anyway."

Zyphen will try to stay in the middle of the group, or in the shadows, or anywhere where he is not a prime target.  Bow out.
Corven
player, 40 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Tue 13 May 2008
at 13:17
  • msg #258

Re: The Causeway Road


Corven will advance with Atalakis (although not foolish, letting the heavily armored warrior go first!).
DM Fletch
GM, 128 posts
More! You want more?!
Thu 15 May 2008
at 15:09
  • msg #259

Re: The Causeway Road

You move quickly out from under the cover of the platform.  It doesn't take long to cross the short distance to the open door of the tower.  Inside you find a bare room.  The only visible feature is a stone staircase that rises in a tight spiral to the room above.  Several other features of the room are immediately apparent, though.  The smell suggests that the room has recently been used as a lavatory.  The noise suggests that any attempt at stealth would have been wasted effort, it sounds like a pitched argument is going on above.

This impression is confirmed when you climb the stairs.  Two orcs are collecting weapons from a rack along one wall.  Four others are clustered around another, larger orc who seems intent on browbeating the others into obedience.  As a result, you are almost upon them before they are aware of you.

This room appears to be the orcs barracks as well as their armoury.  The debris on the floor makes movement difficult.

  1 2 3 4 5
  _ _ _ _ _
A|         |   X = spiral staircase down
B|  X     o|   Y = spiral staircase up
C|    o   o|   o = orcs
D|o O o Y  |   O = big orc
E|_ _ o _ _|
OOC: You get a surprise round, but you can't run or charge as a result of the assorted bedding, food and weaponry scattered on the floor.  The net effect is that you each get to pick a starting grid position (as your surprise round movement) then the fight proper starts.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 92 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Thu 15 May 2008
at 17:50
  • msg #260

Re: The Causeway Road

Cuaglar took up a position along one wall, menacing the orcs with his bow, though he knew that soon he would have to draw blades instead.
OOC: Taking up position at B3
Zyphen
player, 137 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Thu 15 May 2008
at 20:57
  • msg #261

Re: The Causeway Road

Zyphen would like to take a position from which he can get a clear shot with his bow, if that is at all possible.  In order of preference:

1.  The spiral staircase up (so I can shoot down on orcs), but only if someone else is guarding the base of it;
2.  The spiral staircase down (might be able to get partial cover from the floor, but probably harder to get a clean shot at things);
3.  A1.

If Zyphen has time during the surprise round, once he takes his position he will use a Swift action to activate his armor.

Mithrilmist Armor:
Fill space with silver mist (7/day, Swift).
     Mist lasts 1 min., grants concealment, does not interfere with user's
     vision, does not move.

This message was last edited by the player at 20:59, Thu 15 May 2008.
Evesa
player, 18 posts
Init: +1, AC 16/15/11
HP 18/18, Saves +5/+3/+9
Fri 16 May 2008
at 09:54
  • msg #262

Re: The Causeway Road

Following the lead of the paladin Evesa moves towards the tower door and inside. She is happy to be in the middle of the group moving towards and then up the staircase. Finding a position along a wall she tests her grip on the hilt of the sword and prepares to do battle.

OCC: Evesa will move towards A5 if possible.
Corven
player, 41 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Tue 20 May 2008
at 14:41
  • msg #263

Re: The Causeway Road


Corven will leap out of the staircase, keeping the open hole between him and the smelly, dirty orcs.


OOC:  Corven will move to A2.

DM Fletch
GM, 129 posts
More! You want more?!
Wed 21 May 2008
at 14:33
  • msg #264

Round 1

NPC'ed
Atalakis' first instinct is to plunge straight into the midst of the orcs but in the relatively small room he has to adjust his position to make room for his companions to fight.  He takes comfort from the fact that there are still three orcs within swords-reach.

With that, the moment of surprise is over and battle is joined in earnest.

OOC: Okay, time for the first round of combat, you know what to do :)

Also, Zyphen (who is still on the staircase) and Cuaglar please note that although you've both opted to keep your bows, you are already within the threatened area of the closest orc.  You'll get one round of shots off - at best - before bows become dangerously impractical.

  1 2 3 4 5
  _ _ _ _ _
A|  C     E|   X = spiral staircase down
B|  Z M A o|   Y = spiral staircase up (under Zyphen)
C|    o   o|   o = orcs
D|o O o Y  |   O = big orc
E|_ _ o _ _|
               C = Corven
               E = Evesa
               A = Atalakis
               Z = Zyphen
               M = Cuaglar (yes I know that doesn't make any sense but C and A both clash)
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 93 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Wed 21 May 2008
at 14:53
  • msg #265

Re: Round 1

Cuaglar agilely skipped back, while pulling an arrow from his quiver and setting it to the string. When he was out of reach, he let it fly at the orc right in front of him.

OOC: Taking a 5-foot-step to A3, and then shooting the orc in C3.
09:51, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 21 using 1d20+10. Ranged attack roll
09:52, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 4 using 1d8. Damage.
Zyphen
player, 138 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Wed 21 May 2008
at 14:58
  • msg #266

Re: Round 1

Zyphen will fire quickly at the orc at D1 while retreating to the corner.  Once there he will use his armor to create a cloud of silvery mist that conceals him from the orcs.

Round 1

20 Initiative

Full Round Action:  Rapid Shot
Free:  5' step to A1
Swift:  Silver mist per previous post.

Attacks:  16, 11
Damage:  13 (on the 16 attack roll)

Effects:

Fill space with silver mist (7/day, Swift).
     Mist lasts 1 min., grants concealment, does not interfere with user's
     vision, does not move.

10 rounds left.
Corven
player, 42 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Sat 24 May 2008
at 19:23
  • msg #267

Re: Round 1

Corven pulls out his trusty sling, whirling a stone around his head.  After realizing that his companions are blocking the way to the other orcs, Corven instead aims his stone right in the direction of the big orc leader.  Unfortunately the stone merely bounces off of his thick, grimy skin.  Corven curses under his breath and draws another stone!  Next time the orc shall taste the Justice of Chauntea!


Round 1

13:18, Today: Corven rolled 7 using 1d20-5. Corven Init!.

13:19, Today: Corven rolled 10 using 1d20+3. Round 1:  Sling Attack!.

7 Initiative

Full Round Action:  Sling stone at Big Orc
Free:  None
Swift:  None

Attacks:  10
Damage:  NA

Evesa
player, 19 posts
Init: +1, AC 16/15/11
HP 18/18, Saves +5/+3/+9
Tue 27 May 2008
at 12:27
  • msg #268

Re: Round 1

Evesa moves to the corner of the tower and prepares to attack the orc in front of her. She swings her longsword and misses the orc completely. Finding it hard to move with Atalakis standing next to her Evesa draws a breath and prepares herself for the next attack.

OCC: How can I roll the same result for both damage and attack. Stupid dice roller.

20:24, Today: Evesa rolled 7 using 1d20+4. Round 1 longsword.
20:24, Today: Evesa rolled 7 using 1d8+1. Round 1 damage.
DM Fletch
GM, 130 posts
More! You want more?!
Sat 31 May 2008
at 09:26
  • msg #269

Re: Round 1

As battle is joined Zyphen, Cuaglar and Corven step back and release a volley of missiles.  Zyphen drops his target but Cuaglar's mark is only wounded and Corven misses completely.  Atalakis hacks down one of the orcs standing by the weapons racks having waited barely long enough for it to turn to face him and put up an honourable guard. Atalakis NPC'ed

The other orcs seem undismayed by their casualties.  Perhaps it is the sight of their foes, already backed up against the wall, or perhaps it is simply the orcish love of battle.  They are armed with a crude mixture of falchions, shortspears and axes, which they put to good use in the close confines of the tower.

The orc shot by Cuaglar slips between Atalakis and the stairwell to confront his attacker, striking a vicious blow with his spear and nearly pinning Cuaglar to the wall. -12HP Cuaglar

Atalakis is to busy disengaging his greatsword from the dead orc's corpse to react.  Indeed, he is almost too late to defend himself.  Only a twist of Atalakis' body prevents one orc from taking an arm off with its axe.  unconfirmed crit -9HP Atalakis  Atalakis does manage to neatly parry his other assailants spear-thrust.

Evesa's parry is less skilful, but with the strength of desperation knocks aside the attack directed at her.

The larger orc stalks purposefully across the 'open' side of the room to engage Zyphen.  He has the bulk and size of a seasoned fighter and even the silver mist surrounding Zyphen does not prevent him getting hit. -10HP Zyphen



  1 2 3 4 5
  _ _ _ _ _
A|Z C M   E|   X = spiral staircase down
B|O X o A o|   Y = spiral staircase up (under Zyphen)
C|    o o x|   o = orcs
D|x     Y  |   O = big orc
E|_ _ _ _ _|   x = dead orc

               C = Corven
               E = Evesa
               A = Atalakis
               Z = Zyphen
               M = Cuaglar
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 94 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Sun 1 Jun 2008
at 13:24
  • msg #270

Re: Round 1

Cuaglar lunged forward toward the larger orc, drawing his rapier, but then, just when he was most threatening with his blade, he twisted around and stabbed toward the orc to his left, taking it by surprise.  But his intuitive maneuver had not been practiced, so his blade scraped off the leather of the orc.

OOC: Taking a 5-foot step to B2 and executing a sneak attack on the orc flanked by Atalakis.
08:23, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 12 using 1d20+11. Attack roll.
Aw, crackles.
Corven
player, 43 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Tue 3 Jun 2008
at 14:02
  • msg #271

Round 2


As the larger orc approaches Zyphen, Corven drops his sling and thrusts out with his spear!


Round 2

08:00, Today: Corven rolled 4 using 1d6. Round 2:  Corven Spear Damage!.
07:59, Today: Corven rolled 16 using 1d20+2. Round 2:  Corven Spear Attack!.

7 Initiative

Full Round Action:  Attack Big Orc with short spear!
Free:  None
Swift:  None

Attacks:  16
Damage:  4 (if hit)

Zyphen
player, 139 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 8/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Tue 3 Jun 2008
at 15:38
  • msg #272

Re: Round 2

From within the swirls of mist you hear the orc's blade slice Zyphen's flesh, and in response, the clatter of Zyphen's bow against stone as he drops it and draws his sword.


Fletch:  I have only 8 HP left, I would like to do a full defense action.  I would like to do that instead of attack; however, I only remembered there was such a thing as a full defense action after I made my attack roll.  I missed terribly on the roll, so I doubt you will want me to trade.  The below is assuming I cannot.

Round 2

20 Initiative

Move: Draw Sword
Standard:  Attack big orc, fight defensively
Free:  Drop bow
Swift:  NA

Attacks:  5
Damage:  0

Effects:

Fill space with silver mist (6/7 day, Swift).
     Mist lasts 1 min., grants concealment, does not interfere with user's
     vision, does not move.

9 rounds left.
Evesa
player, 20 posts
Init: +1, AC 16/15/11
HP 18/18, Saves +5/+3/+9
Wed 4 Jun 2008
at 14:21
  • msg #273

Re: Round 2

Frustrated by the lack of a hit and the defense needed to prevent being attacked Evesa has another attempt at the orc in front of her. Better focused Evesa swings her longsword and feels the blade hit the orc. Releaved she waits to see what happen next.

[Private to DM Fletch: 22:18, Today: Secret Roll: Evesa rolled 17 using 1d20+4. Round 2 attack of orc.
22:18, Today: Secret Roll: Evesa rolled 7 using 1d8+1. Damage round 2.]
DM Fletch
GM, 132 posts
More! You want more?!
Thu 5 Jun 2008
at 13:35
  • msg #274

Round 2 Round-up

Cuaglar has a clever idea.  He feints a step-lunge towards the larger orc then twists to strike at the orc caught between his new position and Atalakis.  It's not so much a lack of practice as the necessity of keeping his footing moving across the top of the stairs that throws his attack astray.  In the end he is lucky to stay standing.

Corven abandons his sling for his trusty spear.  A simple, straightforward thrust catches the big orc in the ribs but most of the force is spent in piercing the orc's chain shirt and it does not seem too distressed.

Atalakis has now recovered his poise.  Cuaglar's attack may have been unsuccessful but the flanked orc is distracted by the need to track two opponents.  Atalakis makes sure the loss of focus is messily fatal.

Evesa finds that her sword is better balanced than the orc's axe.  Before it has a chance to recover its guard she thrusts her blade into its gut.  The orc goes down screaming.

The two remaining orcs throw a glance at each other and then at the stairway immediately behind them.  They remain in the fight for the moment at least, but they're clearly frightened.  Neither attacks with any conviction and Atalakis' plate armour turns both aside.

Zyphen, now badly wounded, chooses to fight defensively.  It proves to be a wise choice.  The big orc is now awkwardly positioned but Cuaglar is off balance and Corven has yet to prove a real threat.  He attacks Zyphen again and only Zyphen's fast reflexes and defensive stance allow him to parry.  OOC: Attack of 21 just misses on fight defensively, so fortunately I don't have to decide on your request, Zyphen


  1 2 3 4 5
  _ _ _ _ _
A|Z C     E|   X = spiral staircase down
B|O M x A x|   Y = spiral staircase up (under Zyphen)
C|    o o x|   o = orcs
D|x     Y  |   O = big orc
E|_ _ _ _ _|   x = dead orc

               C = Corven
               E = Evesa
               A = Atalakis
               Z = Zyphen
               M = Cuaglar
Zyphen
player, 140 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 8/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Thu 5 Jun 2008
at 14:57
  • msg #275

Re: Round 2 Round-up

Zyphan parries with his greatsword, but knows he will not last long with his foes in such close proximity.  He focuses entirely on defense.  "Kill their leader," he hisses from within the mists.  "Then the others would be fools to stay."

Round 3

20 Initiative

Move: Total Defense
Standard:  Total Defense
Free:  Talk
Swift:  NA

Attacks:  None -- +4 AC.
Damage:  0

Effects:

Fill space with silver mist (6/7 day, Swift).
     Mist lasts 1 min., grants concealment, does not interfere with user's
     vision, does not move.

8 rounds left.

AC - 24, with the Total Defense dodge bonus.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 95 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Sat 7 Jun 2008
at 22:16
  • msg #276

Re: Round 2 Round-up

Cuaglar skipped a step again, sliding nimbly around the big orc while it focused its attention on Zyphen, and once again tried to slip his blade between the gaps of its armor.

OOC: Taking a 5-foot-step to C1, so that I'm flanking with Zyphen.
17:13, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 14 using 1d20+11. Attack roll.
17:14, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 4 using 1d6+1. Damage if hit.
17:15, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 4 using 1d6. Sneak attack damage.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:03, Sun 08 June 2008.
Evesa
player, 21 posts
Init: +1, AC 16/15/11
HP 18/18, Saves +5/+3/+9
Sun 8 Jun 2008
at 11:06
  • msg #277

Re: Round 2 Round-up

Moving along the wall Evesa positions herself to take out another orc. Unable to reach the boss she turns her attention to the orc in the middle of the room. Taking and loading her crossbow she moves and fires a good shot at the orc.

OCC: Evesa moves from A5 to A3 and then shots her crossbow at the orc at C3. As she does not have it loaded it will take up to the nest round to fire.

[Private to DM Fletch: 19:01, Today: Secret Roll: Evesa rolled 15 using 1d20+2. Crossbow attack of orc round 3.
19:03, Today: Secret Roll: Evesa rolled 8 using 1d8. Damage round 3. ]
Corven
player, 44 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Tue 10 Jun 2008
at 12:53
  • msg #278

Round 3

Heeding Zyphen's advice, Corven once again strikes out with his spear, but the giant orc merely brushes it aside with a sweep of his arm.


Round 3

06:52, Today: Corven rolled 4 using 1d20+2. Round 3:  Corven Spear Attack!.

7 Initiative

Full Round Action:  Attack Big Orc with short spear!
Free:  None
Swift:  None

Attacks:  4
Damage:  0

DM Fletch
GM, 134 posts
More! You want more?!
Thu 12 Jun 2008
at 13:04
  • msg #279

Round 3 Round-up

Zyphen concentrates on defending himself, calling out for the others to slay the larger orc who is evidently a leader of sorts.  Corven and Cuaglar do their best, but neither manages to connect.  Cuaglar's attack is devilishly unlucky as the tip of his blade becomes caught for a moment in a buckle of the orc's armour.

Evesa shifts sideways and readies her crossbow.  Any retreating orc will now have to worry about crossbow bolts as well as swords (and spears and...)

Atalakis calmly dispatches another orc and shifts sideways to stand over its corpse.  His attention is now fixed on the orc boss that is bedevilling his companions.  He regrets that preoccupation a moment later when the surviving orc connects with his battleaxe, punching through Atalakis' armour. 10hp damage

The larger orc, aware of his dangerous predicament as an enemy moves behind him, turns his attention from Zyphen's defences to swipe at Cuaglar.  Fortunately, it is little more than that - a frustrated swipe, which comes nowhere near its target.

I have a sneaking suspicion that might be enough to drop Atalakis.  I'll have to confirm that.

  1 2 3 4 5
  _ _ _ _ _
A|Z C E    |   X = spiral staircase down
B|O        |   Y = spiral staircase up (under Zyphen)
C|M   A o  |   o = orcs
D|      Y  |   O = big orc
E|_ _ _ _ _|   x = dead orc

               C = Corven
               E = Evesa
               A = Atalakis
               Z = Zyphen
               M = Cuaglar
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 101 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 37/37, Saves +4/+5/+1
Thu 12 Jun 2008
at 14:22
  • msg #280

Re: Round 3 Round-up

Cuaglar realized that this was quickly becoming a very frustrating fight, and that it should be accomplished as quickly as possible.  He carefully drew back his rapier, aiming carefully, then darted it towards the larger orc once more, aiming for his neck.

OOC: My first two sneak attacks I ever made, and they missed!  With flanking and everything!  Gah!
09:20, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 29 using 1d20+11. Attack roll.
09:21, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 26 using 1d20+11. Critical Confirm.
Okay, NOW we're talking!
09:22, Today: Cuaglar Annondur rolled 17 using 3d6+2. Damage (I added 1d6 of sneak attack damage into the total roll)
Zyphen
player, 147 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 8/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Fri 13 Jun 2008
at 13:18
  • msg #281

Re: Round 3 Round-up

Zyphen continues to defend himself from within the mists.

Round 4

20 Initiative

Move: Total Defense
Standard:  Total Defense
Free:  Talk
Swift:  NA

Attacks:  None -- +4 AC.
Damage:  0

Effects:

Fill space with silver mist (6/7 day, Swift).
     Mist lasts 1 min., grants concealment, does not interfere with user's
     vision, does not move.

7 rounds left.

AC - 24, with the Total Defense dodge bonus.
Evesa
player, 22 posts
Init: +1, AC 16/15/11
HP 18/18, Saves +5/+3/+9
Wed 18 Jun 2008
at 09:52
  • msg #282

Re: Round 3 Round-up

Evesa drops the orc with a well placed crossbow bolt to the orc and then looks around. Seeing nothing but the big orc she steps forward and fires at the big orc. As the bolt sails through the air it looks like it will hit.

[Private to DM Fletch: 17:49, Today: Secret Roll: Evesa rolled 21 using 1d20+2. Attack of big orc.
17:50, Today: Secret Roll: Evesa rolled 18 using 1d20+2. Confirmed crit on big orc.
17:50, Today: Secret Roll: Evesa rolled 7 using 1d8. Damage on big orc.]
DM Fletch
GM, 136 posts
More! You want more?!
Sat 21 Jun 2008
at 08:58
  • msg #283

Round 4 Round-up (and a bit of Round 5)

Atalakis lies bleeding.  The orc standing over him has little time to gloat, however, before it sprouts a crossbow bolt, courtesy of Evesa, and joins Atalakis on the floor.

Cuaglar steels himself against the run of bad luck that has been plaguing his attacks.  His concentration pays off as a neat thrust passes cleanly through the big orc's neck.  Blood sprays and the orc roars in pain as it twists itself away.

Now entirely focussed on Cuaglar, the big orc ignores Zyphen (still preoccupied with defending himself) and Corven (who strikes but to little effect).  The orc must now realise the hopelessness of its situation but that doesn't stop it lashing out at Cuaglar - and landing a heavy blow. 10hp damage to Cuaglar.

In the meantime, Evesa has been hurriedly reloading her crossbow.  Emboldened by her previous success she sights down the length of the bow into the middle of the melee.  She shoots and the bolt strikes the orc just behind the temple with a crunch of breaking bone.  It falls, stone dead.

The fight is over, but cleaning up could take a while :)

Two critical hits = one very dead orc


  1 2 3 4 5
  _ _ _ _ _
A|Z C E    |   X = spiral staircase down
B|  X      |   Y = spiral staircase up
C|M   A    |
D|      Y  |
E|_ _ _ _ _|

               C = Corven
               E = Evesa
               A = Atalakis (down)
               Z = Zyphen
               M = Cuaglar
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 103 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 33/43, Saves +4/+7/+1
Sat 21 Jun 2008
at 20:26
  • msg #284

Re: Round 4 Round-up (and a bit of Round 5)

Cuaglar straightened himself, favoring his left side, and said,
"We've just started.  We have to secure the tower."

OOC: My profile was out of date considering my hit points and Reflex saves
Zyphen
player, 148 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Sat 21 Jun 2008
at 20:56
  • msg #285

Re: Round 4 Round-up (and a bit of Round 5)

Zyphen sheaths his sword, smoothly picks up his bow and places it back on his back.  He then draws a slim wooden stick engraved with runes from some internal pocket.  Murmuring a command word, a purple glow spreads from the wand to Atalakis, knitting the paladin's wounds.  Zyphen then heals himself.

Use 4 charges from wand.  Heal Atalakis for 6, me for 10.
Corven
player, 45 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Mon 23 Jun 2008
at 13:49
  • msg #286

Re: Round 4 Round-up (and a bit of Round 5)


Corven nods.  "We need to keep moving, before they can react.  Is there anything we can use to close off this bottom entrance to the tower?  I'd rather not have them coming from behind us ..."
Evesa
player, 23 posts
Init: +1, AC 16/15/11
HP 18/18, Saves +5/+3/+9
Tue 1 Jul 2008
at 12:39
  • msg #287

Re: Round 4 Round-up (and a bit of Round 5)

"If I remember correctly there is only the door down below. We could try to barricade it to stop anyone following us till we need to leave. Any suggestions?" Evesa replies to Corven's comment. Looking around she searches for something useful on this level, such as a staff or large stick etc.

[Private to DM Fletch: 20:38, Today: Secret Roll: Evesa rolled 19 using 1d20+2. Search tower room.]
DM Fletch
GM, 137 posts
More! You want more?!
Sat 5 Jul 2008
at 04:23
  • msg #288

Re: Round 4 Round-up (and a bit of Round 5)

With Zyphen's help, Atalakis is restored to consciousness, although he is still far from healthy.

"Sune's gracious smile!  I had not thought the devil capable of it.  I was about to challenge that brute of a sergeant and...thump."

Atalakis looks down and surveys the orc lying nearby.  He seems somewhat startled to see a crossbow bolt emerging from its torso.  He glances around the room quickly until his eyes settle on Evesa.

"Ah, it seems I have you to thank young lady for stopping that pesky orc.  I'm very grateful."

The subject of this speech is in the process of searching the tower room.  The orc's had precious little furniture and most of what remains appears to be personal effects, bedrolls and the like.  Still, there are enough scraps of wood from the weapon racks as well as cast off spears, axes and kit for you to bolster, if not actually barricade the lower door.

When pulling the weapon racks aside, Evesa discovers that they are, in fact, covering a crudely concealed door.  A quick search on the other side of the room reveals a second door.  The height and position would match that of the battlements.
Cuaglar Annondur
player, 104 posts
Init. +4, AC 18/14/14
hp: 33/43, Saves +4/+7/+1
Sun 6 Jul 2008
at 14:46
  • msg #289

Re: Round 4 Round-up (and a bit of Round 5)

Cuaglar made himself in charge of securing the door, quickly trotting down the stairs with a load of wood.  He shoved as many pieces as would fit into the door handle, and tried to arrange the rest so that it propped the door closed.
DM Fletch
GM, 138 posts
More! You want more?!
Mon 7 Jul 2008
at 10:55
  • msg #290

Re: Round 4 Round-up (and a bit of Round 5)

Cuaglar finds that the door's handle will not be such an issue.  Propped against the wall beside the door is a heavy wooden bar that slips into brackets mounted on the door and on the wall to either side of the door.  Obviously some remnants of the Keep's defensive purpose remain.  A few scraps jammed under the door and, once the bar is in place, into the bracket should stop anything short of a ram (or perhaps a troll) breaking through.
Zyphen
player, 149 posts
Init +4, AC 20/16/14
HP 18/18, Saves +4/+10/+3
Tue 8 Jul 2008
at 02:43
  • msg #291

Re: Round 4 Round-up (and a bit of Round 5)

Zyphen will hang back, bow in hand, watching everywhere for more foes and following the lead of the more martial, kick-down-the-door characters when it comes to where to go.
Corven
player, 46 posts
Init -5, AC 13/12/10
HP 24/24, Saves +5/+2/+5
Tue 8 Jul 2008
at 14:04
  • msg #292

Re: Round 4 Round-up (and a bit of Round 5)


Corven nods at Cuaglar.  "Good job, now they can't get to us from behind.  Should we head up I assume?"
Evesa
player, 24 posts
Init: +1, AC 16/15/11
HP 18/18, Saves +5/+3/+9
Fri 11 Jul 2008
at 10:27
  • msg #293

Re: Round 4 Round-up (and a bit of Round 5)

While searching the area Evesa turns and smiles at Atalakis. When the door has been secured she starts getting ready to move to another area. Hearing Corvan's comment Evesa turns and says "We should just check where the trap doors lead to and if another access point block them first before continuing."
DM Fletch
GM, 139 posts
More! You want more?!
Sun 13 Jul 2008
at 14:03
  • msg #294

Re: Round 4 Round-up (and a bit of Round 5)

A quick check reveals that the doors do open onto the battlements on either side and the spiral stairs lead up to the roof of the tower.

You have the choice to either push on to your next target or hunker down while people rest and recover.  Another attack would keep the defenders off guard but might stretch your own resources.  On the other hand, the tower you are in is eminently defensible, but you risk getting trapped if the orcs get themselves organised.
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